It was during a five-day period in late November that Calvin Ridley bet money on NFL games.

In his defense, however, it should be added that the star himself did not participate in the matches as he was placed on the team's sick leave list just over three weeks earlier due to mental problems.

But that does not seem to have helped him as he is now suspended for at least a year.

- There is nothing more fundamental to the NFL's success - and to the reputation of everyone associated with our league - than maintaining the integrity of the game.

This is the responsibility of every player, coach, owner, official and all other employees in the league.

Your actions jeopardize the integrity of the sport, threatened to damage the public's trust in professional football and potentially undermined the reputation of your fellow players throughout the NFL, writes NFL chief Roger Goodell in the decision.

"Fully collaborates"

Ridley's club, the Atlanta Falcons, buy the verdict straight from:

"We became aware of the league's investigation in February and since we received the news, we have fully cooperated with the investigation.

We accept the decision that was made ", the club writes in a press release.

NFL ARCHIVE: Rams Win Super Bowl (February 14):

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Los Angels Rams Win Super Bowl Photo: Image Agency