Story perspectives

NFL Considers Replacement Referees Amid CBA Stalemate

3/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The NFL plans to hire replacement referees for the 2026 season if a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the NFL Referees Association (NFLRA) is not finalized by May 2024.
The league intends to compile a list of approximately 150 small college officials for training starting in April 2024.
NFLRA executive director Scott Green voiced concerns about the risks of gambling and player safety related to using replacement officials.
Current CBA negotiations between the NFL and NFLRA are reportedly at a stalemate.

History

Historical Context

In June 2012, the NFL Referees Association's collective bargaining agreement expired, leading to a lockout and the hiring of replacement officials. This culminated in the controversial "Fail Mary" game on September 24, 2012, where a disputed call altered the game's outcome. The ensuing backlash prompted an agreement on September 26, 2012, restoring regular officials and highlighting ongoing concerns about officiating standards and player safety.

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Story summary

The NFL plans to hire replacement referees for the 2026 season if a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the NFL Referees Association (NFLRA) is not finalized by May 2024.
The league intends to compile a list of approximately 150 small college officials for training starting in April 2024.
NFLRA executive director Scott Green voiced concerns about the risks of gambling and player safety related to using replacement officials.
Current CBA negotiations between the NFL and NFLRA are reportedly at a stalemate.

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