NFL Teams Up with ICRG to Tackle Gambling Risks Among College Athletes and Students
In a significant move to promote safer gambling practices, the National Football League has announced a new partnership with the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG).
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NFL Grant Details
With a $600,000 grant from the NFL Foundation over three years, the initiative will fund independent, peer-reviewed research into gambling behaviors among college students and student-athletes—a demographic increasingly exposed to the growing online sports betting landscape.
Research Aimed at a Growing Concern
While past studies have hinted that college athletes may face elevated risks of gambling problems, there remains a lack of fresh, comprehensive data to fully understand the scope. This collaboration between the NFL and ICRG will help fill that knowledge gap.
Researchers funded through the initiative will examine how college populations interact with betting platforms, identify risk factors that make them vulnerable, and investigate how these behaviors impact academic, social, and athletic outcomes.
A from ICRG’s Independent Scientific Advisory Board will review and select the research proposals, ensuring scientific integrity and neutrality.
Expanding Education: Talking to Kids About Gambling
Beyond research, the NFL is also funding a major update to the ICRG’s Talking with Children About Gambling program.
This educational resource provides parents, coaches, and educators with practical tools to talk to young people about the risks of gambling, well before they reach college.
Updated materials will be made widely available online and distributed to schools and youth sports organizations nationwide.
Leadership Perspectives
Anna Isaacson, the NFL’s SVP of Social Responsibility, underscored the importance of this initiative.
NFL SVP of Social Responsibility |
We’re proud to partner with the ICRG to advance research that can drive meaningful solutions and address a critical gap in the understanding of gambling behaviors among college athletes and students. This reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting responsible gambling. |
ICRG President Arthur Paikowsky echoed the sentiment.
ICRG President |
The NFL has once again demonstrated its commitment to player and fan protection by ing this critical research targeting young adults. Together, we can make a meaningful contribution to a safer gambling environment. |
Part of a Larger Commitment
This initiative adds to the NFL’s growing roster of responsible gambling efforts. The league already works closely with organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling (NG) and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) to implement tools, education, and safeguards across its platforms.
As the sports betting industry continues to expand across the U.S. and Canada, the NFL’s proactive approach highlights its dual role—not just as a leader in sports entertainment but also as a stakeholder in the health and well-being of athletes, fans, and future generations.
