Although the NFL announced that Denver Broncos defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike had been suspended for violating the league’s gambling policy. The suspension is indefinite for betting on NFL games.
The league indicated that Uwazurike can apply for reinstatement on July 24, 2024. The league should have indicated whether Uwazurike had bet on Broncos games and provided information that he had bet on NFL games during the 2022 season. If he had bet on Broncos games, it could have affected his ability to win a reinstatement appeal next year.
What did Broncos say about Eyioma Uwazurike Suspension?
The Broncos released a statement: “The NFL notified us today that Uwazurike has been suspended indefinitely by the league for violating his playing policy. Broncos also state that with this investigation, their organization has fully cooperated and takes matters relating to the integrity of sport very seriously.
However, the Broncos’ statement highlights that teams need to be proactive in educating players about the nature of betting policy, something they have failed to do adequately. That seems to align with the thinking of head coach Sean Payton, who joined the team after the Uwazurike policy violation.
Sean Payton said about it:
“We got a package from the league,” Payton told reporters in June. “When policies change, it’s our job to educate players.” Payton indicated that he had reworked the instructional package, which he called “confusing,” to present it more digestibly for players.
“If you’re a teacher and half your class gets D’s, you better look at yourself,” Payton said. “It is not the policy, but the policy’s implementation, understanding, and education.”
Uwazurike played 165 defensive snaps for the Broncos last year, mostly in the second half of the season. He also played 32 special teams snaps. Uwazurike, a fourth-round pick in 2022, played a bigger role until late in the season, and aside from trading Zach Allen after losing Dre’mont Jones to free agency, the Broncos didn’t add many defensive linemen.
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This unit, once a team strength, has lost its luster, and more high-quality players are needed for both starting roles and depth positions. Without Uwazurike, it would be even more difficult.
With defensive lineman Mike Purcell on the NFL roster, this opens up the opportunity for fellow 2022 Day 3 running back Matt Henningsen. He also made room for rookie undrafted free agent PJ Mustipher and free agent and waiver additions such as Jonathan Harris, Tyler Lancaster, and Elijah Garcia, respectively.
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