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          Shaka Toney, reinstated from gambling ban, cut by Commanders

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          • John Keim, ESPN Staff WriterApr 22, 2024, 11:15 AM ET
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              John Keim covers the Washington Commanders for ESPN. He joined ESPN in 2013 after a stint with the Washington Post. He started covering the team in 1994 for the Journal Newspapers and later for the Washington Examiner. He has authored/co-authored four books. You can also listen to him on 'The John Keim Report', which airs on ESPN Richmond radio, and follow him on Twitter @john_keim
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          The Washington Commanders released defensive end Shaka Toney, who was reinstated by the NFL last week after serving a one-year suspension for violating the league's policy on gambling.

          Toney was one of five players who was reinstated by the league, though he was the only one still on a roster. Toney had been suspended on April 21, 2023.

          The league's policy states that players, coaches, team officials and league personnel can't bet on NFL games or place bets while at team facilities or team hotels. Nor can someone place bets for them.

          Washington signed three defensive ends in free agency, re-signed a fourth and have two second-year ends also on their roster. The Commanders have shown an interest in drafting an edge rusher as well, possibly in the second or third round. They also have a new owner, general manager and coach -- none of whom were around when Washington drafted Toney. All of that made Toney expendable.

          Washington drafted Toney, who played at Penn State, in the seventh round in 2021. Toney played in 26 games in two seasons, with one start; he recorded 1.5 sacks and 16 tackles.

          The other four players who were reinstated were outside linebacker Rashod Berry, wide receiver Quintez Cephus, safety C.J. Moore and defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor.