C.J. Moore and Quintez Cephus have been released by the Detroit Lions after the duo and three other NFL players were suspended by the league for gambling violations.

Safety Moore and wide receiver Cephus' releases came after being suspended indefinitely by the NFL, while their now former Lions team-mates Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams were handed six-game bans.

Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney was the other player cited by the league, also earning an indefinite suspension.

A statement from the NFL on Friday said: "The NFL confirmed today that three players have been indefinitely suspended for violating the league's gambling policy. Two other players were each suspended six games.

"Quintez Cephus and C.J. Moore of the Detroit Lions and Shaka Toney of the Washington Commanders are suspended indefinitely through at least the conclusion of the 2023 season for betting on NFL games in the 2022 season. These players may petition for reinstatement at the conclusion of the 2023 season.

"Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams of the Lions are suspended for the team's first six regular season games of the 2023 season. These players are eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason activities, including preseason games. The suspensions will take effect at the final roster cutdown.

"The gambling policy, which is annually reviewed with all NFL personnel, including players, prohibits anyone in the NFL from engaging in any form of gambling in any club or league facility or venue, including the practice facility.

"A league review uncovered no evidence indicating any inside information was used or that any game was compromised in any way."

Shortly after the announcement from the league, the Lions confirmed they had released Moore and Cephus, who played 11 and four games respectively in the 2022 season.

"As a result of an NFL investigation, it came to our attention that a few of our players had violated the league's gambling policy," Lions executive vice president and general manager Brad Holmes said.

"These players exhibited decision-making that is not consistent with our organisational values and violates league rules. We have made the decision to part ways with Quintez and C.J. immediately.

"We are disappointed by the decision-making demonstrated by Stanley and Jameson and will work with both players to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward."