Commanders DE Shaka Toney suspended indefinitely for gambling on NFL games

Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney is among five NFL players suspended for violations of the league’s gambling policy.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Toney, Lions safety CJ Moore and wide receiver Quintez Cephus were suspended indefinitely for betting on NFL games during the 2022 season, which means at least through the conclusion of the 2023 NFL season.

They are allowed to apply for reinstatement into the league for the 2024 season. Meanwhile, Lions star wide receiver Jameson Williams and fellow wide receiver Stanley Berryhill got a six-game suspension for betting on non-NFL games in a league facility.

The Lions released Moore and Cephus shortly after the suspension announcement. Detroit also fired several staff members throughout the organization for gambling.

Meanwhile, the Commanders released a statement on Toney, per JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington.

“We have been made aware of the suspension of Shaka Toney. We have cooperated fully with the NFL’s investigation since receiving notice and support the league’s findings and actions. All further questions on the topic should be directed to the NFL League Office.”

Shaka Toney, a seventh-round draft pick in 2021 out of Penn State, appeared in 16 games last season for the Commanders. He played primarily on special teams with 318 snaps. He played 51 defensive snaps as a reserve defensive end.

Toney was no lock to make the Commanders’ 53-man roster for the 2023 season. Aside from the duo of Montez Sweat and Chase Young, Toney was also behind James Smith-Williams, Efe Odaba, and Casey Toohill on the depth chart.