Arizona Cardinals Scouting Director Suspended for NFL Draft Leaks and Gambling Violations

The Arizona Cardinals have faced a significant setback as their Director of College Scouting, Ryan Gold, has been suspended indefinitely for violating NFL gambling policies. According to the league, Gold allegedly disclosed confidential information about the team’s 2026 NFL Draft selections before they were officially announced, and also placed parlay bets on NFL and college football games.

The NFL released a statement on Friday, July 17, confirming that an internal investigation determined Gold shared inside information regarding the Cardinals’ draft picks. The league emphasized that while there is no evidence suggesting the integrity of any NFL game was compromised, violations of the Gambling Policy are taken extremely seriously.

“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,” the NFL stated.

The NFL did not disclose who received the confidential draft information. However, they confirmed that the Cardinals organization has been cooperative throughout the investigation and that there is no indication any other team members were aware of or involved in Gold’s actions.

Ryan Gold, who was promoted to Director of College Scouting in June 2025, has been with the Cardinals for 13 years, previously serving as Assistant Director of College Scouting and College Scouting Coordinator.

The Cardinals released a statement supporting the NFL’s decision, emphasizing their commitment to league policies.

“The NFL’s policies and expectations for all employees are clear, comprehensive, and consistently communicated,” the team said. “We fully support the league’s decision in this matter, which involves a single employee. Our focus remains on preparing for the start of training camp next week and the 2026 season.”

Gold has the right to appeal the suspension decision.