Washington Commanders Release Shaka Toney After Reinstatement from Gambling Suspension

The Washington Commanders have released defensive end Shaka Toney just four days after he was reinstated by the NFL following a season-long suspension for violating the league's gambling policy in 2023. Toney, a 2021 seventh-round draft pick out of Penn State, played two seasons with the Commanders before being handed the indefinite suspension in April 2023.

Toney was one of five players, including outside linebacker Rashod Berry, wide receiver Quintez Cephus, safety CJ Moore, and defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor, who were reinstated by the NFL on April 17, 2024 after serving suspensions related to gambling violations. The Detroit Lions and Indianapolis Colts had previously released Cephus, Moore, and Berry after their suspensions were announced last year.

The Commanders' swift decision to release the 25-year-old Toney shortly after his reinstatement indicates the team no longer wanted to keep him on the roster following the gambling suspension. During his two seasons in Washington, Toney had shown promise as a pass rusher, but the team opted to move on in the wake of his violation of league rules.

Why this matters: The NFL's handling of gambling violations demonstrates its commitment to preserving the integrity of the sport and upholding its policies. The release of Shaka Toney and the reinstatement of other suspended players reflect the league's dedication to enforcing its rules and holding players accountable for their actions.

The NFL has taken a firm stance against gambling violations in recent years, with high-profile cases such as Calvin Ridley's season-long suspension in 2022 for betting on NFL games while away from his team. As sports betting continues to gain legal status across the United States, the league remains vigilant in monitoring and punishing any infractions to maintain fairness and public trust in the game.

Key Takeaways

• Washington Commanders released DE Shaka Toney 4 days after his reinstatement from gambling suspension.
• Toney was 1 of 5 players reinstated by NFL after serving suspensions for gambling violations.
• Commanders' decision to release Toney indicates team no longer wanted him on roster post-suspension.
• NFL's handling of gambling violations demonstrates commitment to preserving sport's integrity.
• League remains vigilant in monitoring and punishing gambling infractions to maintain fairness and trust.