Police arrested New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte in connection with illegal online gambling.
Boutte, a former standout wide receiver for the LSU Tigers, is accused of creating an alias to illegally bet on sports while he was underage. According to a report from NOLA.com, Boutte placed over 8,900 wagers, “at least 17 of which were on NCAA football games and at least 6 of which were on LSU football.”
Following his arrest, the NFL issued a very brief statement to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport.
“We are aware of the matter but have no further comment at this time,” the league said.
From the NFL: “We are aware of the matter but have no further comment at this time.” https://t.co/ahmO2VNNpz
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 25, 2024
While the NFL was especially brief in its statement, LSU had a bit more to say.
“In July 2023, LSU was made aware of allegations regarding a former student-athlete’s improper conduct related to sports gambling while enrolled at the University,” the school said in a statement. “Since then, we have fully cooperated with all relevant authorities involved in the investigation and will continue to do so. We have no evidence that any other student-athletes participated in these prohibited activities, and we are grateful for measures that detect and discourage sports gambling related misconduct.”
Boutte, a sixth-round pick by the Patriots in 2023, caught just two passes for 19 yards during his rookie season.