Steelers Cam Heyward Delivers Simple Message on Potential Gambling Violations

Pittsburgh Steelers captain Cam Heyward has a clear message to his teammates when it comes to gambling: don’t do it.

The NFL has been cracking down on gambling violations this season. Wide receiver Calvin Ridley was suspended for the entire 2022 season for violating the league’s gambling policy.

This year, Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus, safety C.J. Moore and Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney were all suspended for a year. Lions receivers Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams earned six-game suspensions.

More suspensions could be coming, with the NFL investigating Indianapolis Colts cornerback Isaiah Rodgers among a potential new batch of violations.

The NFL player and staff policy prohibits not only wagering on NFL games, but also any gambling that occurs inside a team or league facility, or while traveling with their team. The league says it provides education to players on the policy.

“We are very explicit in the training to explain that if you are involved with the NFL, you can never bet on the NFL,” vice president David Highhill said to ESPN. “There should be no misunderstanding on the policies.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin said earlier this offseason that it isn’t something he’s felt the need to stress beyond that black and white stance. Heyward, the Steelers defensive captain and the team’s most-tenured player, said much of the same.

“Mike T addressed it already,” Heyward said on Wednesday. “It’s pretty straightforward. Don’t bet on games. You try to keep it competitive. I’d hate to think that somebody is trying to shave off points to cover the under or the over. I don’t like betting.”

Pennsylvania is one of 24 states that have legalized sports betting, including online bets. Those states house 18 of the 32 NFL teams.