NFL demands prediction markets ban objectionable bets to protect game integrity

The NFL is maintaining a firm stance against granting official partnership status to prediction market exchanges, unlike the MLB, NHL, and MLS. In communications with the CFTC and exchanges like Kalshi and Polymarket, the league has expressed deep concern regarding the integrity of its games.

The NFL is specifically calling for the prohibition of ‘objectionable bets’ that could be easily manipulated by a single person or threaten player and official safety. These include contracts related to player injuries, player misconduct, officiating decisions, and specific on-field outcomes such as whether a kicker misses a field goal or a quarterback’s first pass is incomplete.

To mitigate risks of manipulation and insider trading, the league is seeking several conditions for any future cooperation, including a minimum trading age of 21, advertising restrictions, and protections against market manipulation. While some exchanges, such as Novig, have implemented a ‘Responsible Trading Framework’ featuring a 21+ age requirement and self-control tools, the NFL has not yet granted official status to any major prediction market platform.