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The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has launched an investigation into alleged gambling activities involving Ryan Gold, a former executive with the Arizona Cardinals. This development follows a similar probe in Arizona after the NFL suspended Gold for violating its gambling policy. The league accused Gold of sharing non-public information regarding the 2026 draft selections and participating in parlay bets on NFL and college games.
The NFL's investigation determined that Gold provided confidential information about the Cardinals' draft picks before they were announced. However, Gold's attorney, Mike Caspino, disputes these claims, arguing that the accusations are "blatantly false." Caspino stated that the gambling activity involved Gold's wife making small bets with friends and that Gold was not involved. He also contended that Gold could not have shared draft picks as he was not privy to them, with only the team owner and general manager having that knowledge.
Despite these assertions, the NFL maintains that the Cardinals fully cooperated with the investigation and found no evidence implicating other team members. The league emphasized that its gambling policy, which is reviewed annually with all NFL personnel, strictly prohibits any form of sports gambling and the sharing of confidential information.
Gold, who was promoted to director of college scouting in June 2025, is appealing his suspension. His attorney expects him to be vindicated after an appeal hearing scheduled for next month. The Cardinals have expressed their support for the NFL's decision, focusing on preparing for the upcoming season.
The case has drawn attention to the NFL's strict gambling policies, which prohibit players and personnel from engaging in gambling activities or sharing confidential information. The league has dedicated significant resources to educating its members on these policies, reaching over 20,000 people associated with the NFL.