Jaguars’ Calvin Ridley, suspended for 2022 season due to gambling on games, reinstated by NFL

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Calvin Ridley has been reinstated by the NFL, the league announced Monday.

“Ridley, who was suspended indefinitely through March 2022 for violating the NFL’s gambling policy, is eligible to participate in all team activities, effective immediately,” an official statement from the league said.

Ridley applied for reinstatement last month on the first date he was able to do so.

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The Pro Bowler was suspended in November 2021 after being found betting on NFL games during a five-day period while he was away from the team on the non-football illness list.

“Today’s reinstatement by the NFL brings to an end a challenging chapter in my professional career, one that began with self-inflicted and isolated judgment,” Ridley said in an official statement. said in an official statement. “I’ve always had my mistakes and this is no different. I have a lot of respect for the game and am excited for the opportunity to restart my career in Jacksonville. I absolutely thank my new coaches, teammates and the entire Jaguars organization. Eager to show right. Who I am and what I represent as a player and as a person.”

“The Jaguars organization is aware of the NFL’s decision to reinstate Calvin Ridley,” the team added. “We look forward to building a relationship with Calvin as an individual and as a player. Calvin is a proven playmaker and we are excited to see him compete among and with his new teammates, first in April at our throughout the offseason program and ultimately the 2023 season, as we collectively pursue a championship for Jacksonville.”

Jaguars’ Calvin Ridley applies for reinstatement after suspension for betting on NFL games: reports

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell sent a letter to Ridley condemning his actions and reminding him of the strict anti-gambling policy for players.

“Nothing is more fundamental to the success of the NFL — and to the reputation of everyone associated with our league — than maintaining the integrity of the game,” Goodell said in the letter.

“This is the responsibility of every player, coach, owner, game official, and anyone else working in the league. Your actions threatened the integrity of the game, threatened to damage public confidence in professional football, and potentially Undermined its reputation on. Your teammates throughout the NFL.

Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley catches a pass against the Washington football team on Oct. 3, 2021, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. (Rich Von Biberstein/ICON Sportswire via Getty Images)

“For decades, gambling on NFL games has been considered one of the most significant violations of league policy that warrants the most significant sanction. In your case, I would immediately report you for an interview, and your actions. I accept and appreciate you for accepting.”

Ridley took to social media after learning of his suspension, and while he admitted to gambling, he said he was not addicted.

Calvin Ridley’s suspension for gambling drew anger toward the NFL

The Jaguars, knowing that Ridley would not be able to play for them until 2023, traded him to Atlanta in November. They sent a 2023 fifth-round pick and a 2024 conditional fourth-round pick to the Falcons.

“This is an opportunity to add a proven playmaker to our already talented wide receiver room as we continue to build our roster for 2023 and beyond. Looking forward to adding to our program at the appropriate time,” Jaguars GM Trent Baalke said at the time.

Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley walks off the field after the Washington game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Oct. 3, 2021. (Rich Von Biberstein/ICON Sportswire via Getty Images)

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The Jaguars made the postseason last season after a second-half push for a solid offense from Trevor Lawrence and company. Ridley is expected to make an immediate impact for them this season among a group of wide receivers that includes Christian Kirk, Zay Jones and. Marvin Jones Jr