After a tumultuous offseason, free agent safety C.J. Moore has decided to re-sign with the Detroit Lions following a suspension for violating the NFL’s gambling policies. The news comes as a surprise to many, as Moore had been linked to several other teams during his time on the open market.
Moore, who originally signed with the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2019, was suspended for the first six games of the 2021 season after it was discovered that he had placed bets on NFL games through an illegal gambling operation. The league conducted a thorough investigation and ultimately determined that Moore had violated their strict rules against gambling on NFL games.
Despite the suspension, Moore remained optimistic about his future in the league and worked tirelessly to stay in shape and improve his skills during his time away from the game. The Lions, who had shown interest in bringing Moore back before his suspension, were impressed with his dedication and commitment to making amends for his mistake.
“We believe in C.J.’s character and his ability to contribute to our team,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said in a statement. “He has shown remorse for his actions and has worked hard to earn back the trust of his teammates and coaching staff. We are excited to have him back in the fold and look forward to seeing what he can accomplish on the field this season.”
Moore, who has primarily played on special teams during his time with the Lions, is poised to compete for a starting role in the secondary this year. The 25-year-old safety is known for his speed, athleticism, and hard-hitting style of play, making him a valuable asset for a defense that is looking to improve upon its performance from last season.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my career with the Lions,” Moore said in a statement. “I have learned from my mistake and am committed to being the best teammate and player I can be moving forward. I am excited to get back on the field and help this team win games.”
As Moore prepares to rejoin his teammates in training camp, he is focused on making the most of his second chance in the NFL and proving that he belongs in the league. With a renewed sense of purpose and determination, Moore is ready to make a positive impact on the Lions and help lead them to success in the upcoming season.
