The Arizona Cardinals have indefinitely suspended personnel executive Ryan Gold for violating the NFL’s gambling policy. Gold, who serves as the team’s director of college scouting, has faced these consequences following an announcement on Friday.
According to the Associated Press, an investigation revealed that Gold distributed confidential, non-public information regarding the Cardinals’ draft picks for the 2026 NFL Draft prior to their official announcement. The league did not specify the recipient(s) of this inside information.
“The Gambling Policy, which is annually reviewed with all NFL personnel, strictly prohibits anyone in the NFL from participating in or facilitating any form of sports gambling, and from providing third parties non-public information,” stated the NFL. The league emphasized that despite Gold’s actions, the integrity of NFL games remains intact.
The investigation also uncovered Gold’s involvement in parlay bets on NFL and college games. The league reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of NFL games and expressed the gravity with which it considers violations of its gambling policy.
The Cardinals issued a statement confirming Gold as the sole employee implicated in the investigation. They reinforced their support for the league’s decision and highlighted their ongoing focus on preparing for the upcoming 2026 season and training camp.
Gold has been part of the Cardinals organization for 13 seasons according to the team’s website. Before ascending to his current role in June 2025, he served three seasons as assistant director of college scouting and four years as college scouting coordinator.
The Cardinals elaborated on Gold’s role, explaining that he supervises the day-to-day operations of the college scouting department, evaluates draft-eligible prospects, oversees the college scouting staff, and manages pre-draft events.
