Report: NFL investigating 'second wave' of gambling violations

Sports betting is becoming more popular, but it could present a huge problem for the NFL if players and other personnel continue to violate league policy. 

ESPN's David Purdum reported Monday thatthe NFL is investigating a second wave of potential gambling violations after the league suspended five players for violations of the policy in April.

The details of the violations currently under investigation remain vague, but it appears the NFL is being proactive because gambling infractions are becoming more common.

In 2018, the Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Act, a federal statute restricting most sports betting to Nevada. Per Purdum, seven NFL players, one assistant coach and one team employee violated the league's gambling policy over the past five seasons. 

Under NFL policy, players, coaches and staff can bet on other sports if they're not at a league or team facility. A violation of that statute results in a six-game suspension. The league also prohibits personnel from betting on NFL games or other league events, with a violation bringing a year-long suspension. 

Per Purdum, the NFL trains more than 17,000 people on its gambling policy. 

"There should be no misunderstanding on the policies," NFL vice president and general manager of sports betting David Highill told ESPN. 

The policy may be clear, but it's still challenging to regulate. 

"Players could also bet outside of the regulated betting market in the U.S., with an offshore sportsbook or a local bookmaker who don't have partnerships with the league and are not obligated to alert the NFL of any such activity," Purdum wrote. 

The policy could also be circumvented by a regulated individual directing an associate outside of the NFL to place a bet for them.

Nonetheless, the NFL must find ways to enforce its policy and continue to prevent rule-breaking. A massive gambling scandal could diminish the league's integrity and reputation.