BREAKING: Commanders’ key player reinstated by NFL after suspensions for gambling

NEW YORK — The NFL reinstated five players on Thursday, including Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney, after they were suspended in the previous season for breaking the league’s gambling rules.

Additionally, four free agents – outside linebacker Rashod Berry, wide receiver Quintez Cephus, safety CJ Moore, and defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor – have also been reinstated and are now eligible to sign with teams.

The NFL’s gambling policy strictly forbids players, coaches, team officials, and league personnel from engaging in betting activities related to NFL games, whether it’s placing bets themselves, doing so at team facilities or hotels, or getting someone else to bet on their behalf.

Cephus and Moore, who were both part of the Detroit Lions in April 2023, faced suspensions for the entire 2023 season. Toney, who was also suspended last April, had been selected as a seventh-round pick in 2021 and achieved 1½ sacks during his time with Washington in two seasons. Berry, who was with the Indianapolis Colts, and Taylor, who was a free agent at the time, were both suspended in June.

During his three seasons with the Lions, Cephus recorded 60 receptions for 568 yards and four touchdowns. Moore, on the other hand, played in 56 games for Detroit between 2019 and 2022.

Following the announcement of their suspensions, the Lions swiftly released Cephus and Moore, while the Colts took the same action with Berry.