Eagles Star Sells Prediction Market Stake to Satisfy NFL Rules

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley sold his equity stake in Polymarket this week to comply with new NFL regulations. The league prohibits players from investing in companies classified as gambling or prediction markets. Barkley explained the decision in an interview with Front Office Sports, which released its findings on Wednesday.

The NFL informs athletes of permitted endorsements and investments before each season begins. Prediction markets are now excluded from the list of allowed ventures. Barkley stated that he held a position in the company previously but exited due to the new restrictions. He described the situation as no longer viable for him under current league policies.

An NFL Players Association spokesperson previously confirmed the league's stance. The union noted that the NFL treats prediction markets as gambling entities. Consequently, players cannot serve as endorsers or brand ambassadors for firms like Kalshi or Polymarket. This rule applies to both direct investments and public endorsements.

Barkley has maintained a portfolio of startup investments outside of football. A 2025 report by The Profile indicated he invested over $500,000 in several tech companies. Those investments included Anthropic, Anduril, Ramp, Cognition, Neuralink, Strike, and Polymarket. The move aligns his financial holdings with the league's updated compliance standards.

The NFL's approach to prediction markets differs from other major U.S. sports leagues. The NBA, Major League Baseball, the NHL, and MLS have signed 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 that the NFL wants a quick ruling and would accept a federal framework if it mirrors state regulations.