In a surprising turn of events, two NFL rookies, Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders and Malik Nabers of the New York Giants, have called off their $10,000 bet on who would win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. The wager came to light after Daniels mentioned it during an interview on a podcast with Keyshawn Johnson. However, both players became aware of the NFL's gambling policy and decided to cancel the bet.
According to reports, Nabers announced the cancellation during his first professional practice at rookie minicamp. Daniels confirmed the news and expressed that they did not want to get in trouble with the league.
The betting policy in question prohibits private wagers between teammates, family and friends, or others. It is unclear if a bet placed before a player is drafted is still allowed under this policy. However, it appears that Daniels and Nabers have decided to err on the side of caution.
Daniels wears No. 5 for the Washington Commanders with the agreement of punter Tress Way, who previously held the number. Luke McCaffrey, a third-round draft pick and younger brother of Christian McCaffrey, expressed excitement about playing with Daniels during rookie minicamp.
The NFL has disciplined players in the past for violating gambling policies. Although the wager between Daniels and Nabers would not have involved a sportsbook, it could still be considered a violation of league rules.