By Adam Aniba
Today's news that third year Commanders DE Shaka Toney would be suspended indefinitely, for betting on NFL games in '22 came as a surprise to fans.
Toney was drafted in '21 as Washington's 7th round selection (246th overall). The former Nittany Lion has been active in 26 games during his career in Washington. He spent most of his time on the practice squad and in a reserve role when on the active roster (6 career tackles and 1.5 sacks).
Many in the organization hoped that Toney could develop into a solid rotational player in time. Today's news certainly could hurt Toney's long term future in the league.
As mentioned above, 5 players from around the league were suspended for gambling violations. Lion's WR Quintez Cephus and C.J. Moore were released today after the news broke.
Early reports have been that these players bet on NFL games during the '22 season. Two players reportedly bet on college football games, from their team facility and will receive 6 game suspensions (Lions WR's Jameson Williams & Stanley Berryhill), which is also prohibited.
Toney already had an uphill battle to make the opening day roster, so news of his release could be forthcoming.
With Montez Sweat on his 5th year option and the team still in discussions about opting to give Chase Young the 5th year option in '24, selecting an Edge Rusher in the draft is likely.
Washington currently has reserve defensive ends Williams Bradley King, Efe Obada, James Smith-Williams and Casey Toohill on the roster.
Although drafting a 1st round pass rusher is unlikely, Day 3 prospects such as Louisville's Ya Ya Diaby, OSU Zach Harrison or San Jose State Viliami Fehoko are a few prospects that could be on Ron RIvera's radar.
The NFL has made it clear that they have a zero tolerance policy for players betting on NFL games. Last season former Falcons receiver Calvin Ridley was suspended for the entire '22 season for NFL betting and was just recently reinstated.
These players will all get an opportunity to appeal their suspensions, but reserve players like Toney, could see their career derailed if the Commanders do in fact elect to release him.
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