NFL Launches Research Initiative with ICRG on College Gambling Risks

International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) to confront rising concerns over gambling habits among college students and athletes. Announced this week, the partnership includes a $600,000 commitment over three years from the NFL Foundation to fund comprehensive, peer-reviewed research.

Three-Year, $600K Partnership Targets Youth Gambling Behavior

The research will focus on the prevalence of gambling within college-age populations, particularly student athletes, and will explore underlying risk factors and potential consequences. Despite prior indications that these groups may face heightened gambling risks, industry experts note a lack of up-to-date, detailed research on the subject.

With funding from the NFL, the ICRG will spearhead the research effort, which will be guided by its Independent Scientific Advisory Board. This board will evaluate grant proposals through a peer-reviewed process before awarding funds to selected projects.

Data-Driven Tools and Updated Educational Resources

Beyond research, the collaboration includes the modernization of ICRG’s educational toolkit “Talking with Children About Gambling.” The update aims to provide actionable guidance for adults—such as educators, parents, and sports coaches—on how to minimize exposure to gambling before students reach college age.

The updated materials will be made available digitally and distributed through schools, youth sports programs, and community organizations across the U.S.

NFL Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility Anna Isaacson emphasized the league’s broader mission: “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 initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting responsible gambling and fostering a safe and ive environment for athletes, fans, and communities.”

Reinforcing NFL’s Broader Responsible Gambling Strategy

The new ICRG partnership strengthens the NFL’s expanding portfolio of responsible gambling initiatives. It complements ongoing efforts with organizations such as the National Council on Problem Gambling (NG) and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC), which have also been instrumental in shaping the league’s approach to gambling risk management.

ICRG President Arthur Paikowsky praised the NFL’s continued leadership: “The NFL has once again demonstrated its commitment to player and fan protection by ing this critical research targeting young adults. The NFL and ICRG together will make a meaningful contribution to understanding and implementing policies and programs that a safer gambling environment.”

As sports betting becomes increasingly accessible through digital platforms, concern over its influence on younger demographics has grown. This partnership, rooted in research and education, aims to deliver targeted strategies that address those concerns with both immediate and long-term impact.

The league sees this initiative not only as a means to enhance safety and awareness, but also as a proactive step in adapting to the evolving landscape of legalized sports betting in the U.S.

Source:

“NFL partners with ICRG to advance research on gambling behaviors among college athletes, students”, nfl.com, Jun 4, 2025