Following an NFL investigation, the Detroit Lions have cut wideout Quintez Cephus as well as safety C.J. Moore for gambling on NFL games during the 2022 season.
“As a result of an NFL investigation, it came to our attention that a few of our players had violated the league’s gambling policy,” said Detroit General Manager Brad Holmes. “These players exhibited decision making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules.”
“We have made the decision to part ways with Quintez and C.J. immediately,” added Holmes.
Cephus, a 2020 fifth round draft pick in 2020 out of Wisconsin, produced limited production in his three seasons with the club making 37 receptions for 568 yards while snagging four touchdowns.
Meanwhile Moore appeared in only 11 games last year, registering just 12 tackles.
Star wide receiver Jameson Williams, who was only suspended six games by the NFL for his gambling violations, remains on the team.
Williams, the No. 12 pick in the 2022 NFL draft, as fellow wide receiver Stanley Berryhill were given six-game suspensions for violating the league’s gambling policy. The NFL says the players bet on non-NFL games while in team facilities, a violation of league rules. However, both players will remain on the team.
“We are disappointed by the decision making demonstrated by Stanley and Jameson and will work with both players to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward,” said Holmes.
#Lions release WR Quintez Cephus and S C.J. Moore; WR Stanley Berryhill and WR Jameson Williams suspended by NFL: https://t.co/BV7NFiB9vs
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 21, 2023
After missing most of his rookie season rehabbing from a knee injury suffered in the 2022 college football national championship game, the former Alabama standout Williams made just one reception in six games. Berryhill, who appeared in just four games in his rookie campaign, notched one tackle on special teams.
Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney was also suspended for the 2023 season in the league’s betting crackdown.
