Man you think you could simply sit and watch a game then you find this. fraud have been uncovered in the NFL, primarily involving former players, including a major 2019 health care fraud scheme exceeding \(\$3.9\) million, Ponzi schemes, and the misuse of public welfare funds. Over 15 former players pleaded guilty to defrauding the league's Gene Upshaw Health Reimbursement Account Plan by submitting fake, high-cost medical equipment claims. Key instances of fraud found in the NFL include: Health Care Fraud (2019–2021): More than 15 former NFL players were charged and pleaded guilty to a nationwide scheme to defraud the Gene Upshaw NFL Player Health Reimbursement Account Plan. The scheme involved submitting false claims for expensive, unused medical equipment, totaling over \(\$3.9\) million.Brett Favre Welfare Fraud Allegations: Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre was implicated in a Mississippi civil lawsuit regarding the diversion of at least \(\$5\) million in welfare funds to build a volleyball stadium.Ponzi Schemes and Investment Fraud: Former players have been convicted of financial crimes, such as a 2025 case where a former player was sentenced to prison for a \(\$5.3\) million Ponzi scheme involving real estate and gold mines. Another case involved a former player using his NFL annuity to scam individuals.Counterfeit Merchandise: Federal agencies have seized millions in fake NFL merchandise, with one operation seizing over \(\$19.5\) million in fraudulent items.Financial Fraud Targeting Players: Current players have also been victims of fraud, such as Vikings linebacker Dallas Turner, who lost \(\$240,000\) in a financial fraud scheme in 2025.