Ohio-based Bernie Kosar has been removed from the Browns’ pregame radio show after violating NFL rules by betting on the Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers game.
A Cleveland Browns fan, he has reportedly been let go from his job as a member of the Browns’ pregame radio show. Kosar revealed on social media that he placed a $19,000 bet on the Browns to beat the Steelers.
Kosar, who wears No. 19, is Ohio’s first legal sports bettor using the Tipco sportsbook app. After the Browns defeated the Miami Dolphins, the Pittsburgh Steelers narrowly lost the game 28-14.
I have been told by the Browns that my Steelers Gameday services are no longer wanted or needed. I’m not doing today’s radio show I’m shocked I’m shocked 😢Brown and orange is my life 🏈 #Umatter https://t.co/a834Gs3FSU @BernieKosarShow go over #Browns
— Bernie Kosar (@BernieKosarQB) January 8, 2023
The Browns commented in a statement: “Earlier this week, we informed Bernie that, per league policy, we must remove him from our pregame radio coverage for the final time after he violated the NFL’s gambling policy by betting on an NFL game.” He said.
He continued, “We understand what Bernie means to this community and our history, but as team contracted employees were hired to provide content on media platforms, that bet was a violation of NFL rules and we must abide by all NFL policies.”
How common is it to break league rules?
Although Kosar is no longer a player, six previous NFL stars have been suspended for violating the league’s gambling policy. Recently, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Calvin Ridley was suspended for the entire 2022 season after the league discovered that he had bet on NFL games in 2021.
Kosar becomes the first player and non-coach fined by the league for gambling.
