NFL, union revise gambling policy; Lions' Williams to be reinstated

The NFL and NFLPA modified their gambling policy to include harsher punishments for betting on NFL games and reduced penalties for gambling on other sports at team workplaces, they announced Friday.

Under the new policy, betting on NFL games will result in an indefinite suspension for a minimum of one year. Players will receive at least a two-year ban for gambling on contests involving their own team. Game-fixing will be punished with a lifetime ban.

Punishment for betting on non-NFL sports while at the workplace has been reduced from a six-game suspension to two games. A second violation will come with a six-game ban, while a third violation carries at least a one-year suspension.

Due to the modifications, Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams and Tennessee Titans offensive lineman Nicholas Petit-Frere will be reinstated Monday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. Williams and Petit-Frere were suspended six games earlier this year for placing non-NFL bets at work.

Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a memo that the revised protocols provide players with "clarity and focus" and "clear guidance" on the consequences of violating the gambling policy.

The NFL handed out multiple suspensions this offseason due to gambling policy violations. Former Lions players Stanley Berryhill, Quintez Cephus, and C.J. Moore were all suspended alongside Williams, though they were released. Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney and former Indianapolis Colts members Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry were given indefinite bans.