Former New York Jets Wide Receiver Joshua Bellamy Sentenced to Over 3 Years in Prison for COVID-19 Relief Fraud
In a shocking turn of events, Joshua Bellamy, the former wide receiver for the New York Jets, has been sentenced to more than three years in prison for defrauding the U.S. government out of over
The Crime and the Scheme
Bellamy’s crime was part of a larger scheme to exploit the COVID-19 relief funds intended to assist small businesses facing financial difficulty during the pandemic. Between
Rather than using the funds as intended to support a business, Bellamy used the money for personal expenses, including luxury items and a high-end watch, as well as gambling. Authorities uncovered his fraudulent activities after a detailed investigation, which revealed that Bellamy had made false statements about his business operations to secure the loan.
The Impact on the Jets and NFL Community
Bellamy’s arrest and conviction have sent shockwaves through the NFL community. Having played for several teams, including the Jets, Bellamy had left his mark on the league before his criminal activities caught up with him. His conviction for defrauding a program designed to help American businesses during one of the worst economic crises in modern history has caused a ripple effect across both the sports and business communities.
In a statement, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said, “The actions taken by Joshua Bellamy are not reflective of the values of the NFL, and we are deeply disappointed in his behavior. This situation serves as a reminder that the league holds all players to the highest standards, on and off the field.”
The New York Jets also issued a statement, expressing their disappointment in Bellamy’s actions and stating that they would be taking the matter seriously. The team emphasized their commitment to upholding ethical standards both in football and beyond.
A Fall from Grace
Bellamy, once seen as a promising wide receiver in the NFL, now faces a very different future. His football career, which included a short stint with the
While Bellamy’s story was once one of athletic promise, it has now become a cautionary tale about the consequences of illegal activities, even for those who achieve success in the public eye. His case highlights the importance of accountability and the need for transparency in financial matters, particularly during times of national crisis.
The Legal Consequences
Bellamy’s sentencing comes after a series of investigations into fraudulent activity surrounding COVID-19 relief funds. He was sentenced to 37 months in prison after being found guilty of wire fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. In addition to the prison time, he will also be required to pay restitution as part of his sentence.
Legal experts note that Bellamy’s conviction serves as a warning to others who might try to exploit government relief programs. The U.S. Department of Justice has made it clear that it will pursue individuals involved in fraud, and Bellamy’s case could set a precedent for others seeking to unlawfully benefit from these funds.
Looking Ahead
Bellamy’s future in the NFL is now all but over, and the scandal has cast a long shadow over his brief football career. For the victims of his fraudulent actions, this case is a stark reminder of the lengths some individuals will go to for personal gain, even at the expense of others’ well-being during a global crisis.
As the legal proceedings continue, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in managing relief efforts, especially during a time of such widespread suffering and uncertainty.
JJ Moser Becoming Essential to Lightning
JJ Moser’s rise with the Tampa Bay Lightning has been quietly impressive, the kind of story that doesn’t always make the highlight reels but shows up in every game he plays. Drafted in the second round, 60th overall, by the Arizona Coyotes in 2021, Moser spent three seasons there scoring 16 goals and 72 points in 205 games.
He showed steady development, but it’s in Tampa Bay that his skill set and personality have found a perfect fit. With a fast, intelligent playmaking style and a quiet, joyful presence, Moser has adjusted seamlessly to the Lightning’s system, helping energize a team that struggled out of the gate this season.
Tampa Bay From Last to First in the Division Standings
Tampa Bay started 1–4–2, a record that had fans and analysts questioning whether the Lightning could contend in a competitive Atlantic Division. Fast forward less than a month, and the story is dramatically different: the team sits at 13–7–2, going 12–3 over their last 15 games, soaring from last to first in the division with one of the best records in the NHL. Two factors stand out behind this resurgence: Andrei Vasilevskiy returning to his elite form in net and young players stepping up to complement the veteran-heavy lineup.
Even with injuries to top defenders Victor Hedman and Ryan McDonagh, who have been out for seven games, and Erik Cernak missing multiple contests, the Lightning have maintained stability on the back end. This has allowed rookies and young defensemen to play larger roles than anticipated. Charle-Edouard D’Astous earned praise from Jon Cooper for thriving under these circumstances, and JJ Moser has been similarly lauded. Usually paired with Hedman, Moser has now stepped up to a leadership role among the remaining defensemen, filling the void left by the injured veterans.
Cooper Praises Moser’s Poise and Reliability
Tampa Bay hasn't let the injury bug slow them down at all, which has left their head coach extremely impressed. After the Lightnings' fourth consecutive win, a 3–0 shutout against the Philadelphia Flyers — their first of the season — Cooper spoke about Moser’s impact during the postgame presser.
“Well first of all, how about that block he made in the third period? That’s the kind of effort you’re getting from guys. I think we’re not looking at the scoreboard saying it’s 1–0, 2–0, we gotta make it 5–0. It’s 1–0, 2–0, let’s keep the zero a zero, and Mose [Moser] has been doing that for us. You need some breaks along the way — the goalie’s stopping everything, but at times he might be in trouble and Mo bailed him out on that one play."
Cooper’s words underscore Moser’s value: a steady, reliable presence capable of maintaining structure and composure in high-pressure situations. He may not always be flashy, but his defensive intelligence and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively have quickly made him indispensable. Tampa Bay's head coach also had this to say about how impressed he's been with Moser, while also possibly giving him a new nickname.
"Mo’s a hell of a player. You have some of the names on the backs of the jerseys of the guys that have come through here and play here now, and he just goes about his business. He’s quietly a complete 200-foot defenseman. He’s like an eraser. Every time something breaks down, he erases the mistake, and it’s great to have him back there.”
As the Lightning continue to push through the 2025/26 season with significant injuries, Moser’s growth provides reassurance that Tampa Bay can maintain elite performance on the back end. If he continues to play at this level, he could become one of the unsung heroes of a team looking to return to championship form. With Cooper’s praise and the team riding high, the future looks bright for both Moser and the Lightning.
