Saquon Barkley Exits Polymarket to Meet NFL Gambling Standards

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley divested his equity stake in the prediction market firm Polymarket to adhere to new National Football League regulations. The league prohibits players from holding investments in companies classified as gambling or prediction market entities.

Barkley disclosed the decision in an interview with Front Office Sports published Wednesday. He explained that the league informs players of permitted investments and endorsements before each season. Prediction market involvement is no longer on the approved list. "I was in it before, but no bueno," he said.

The NFL Players Association clarified the policy earlier this year. A spokesperson stated that the league views prediction markets as gambling entities. Consequently, players cannot serve as endorsers or brand ambassadors for firms like Kalshi or Polymarket under the existing gambling policy.

Barkley has maintained an active portfolio of startup investments. A 2025 report from The Profile noted he invested over $500,000 in various companies. His portfolio included Anthropic, Anduril, Ramp, Cognition, Neuralink, Strike, and Polymarket.

The NFL’s stance distinguishes it from other major American sports leagues. The NBA, Major League Baseball, the NHL, and MLS all hold agreements with Kalshi, Polymarket, or both. The NFL is also seeking judicial clarity on the issue.

Earlier this month, the league petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review whether sports event contracts fall under state gambling regulators. A league source told ESPN’s David Purdum that the primary goal is rapid clarity. The league would accept a federal framework if it mirrors the regulatory approach used by states.