NFL Prepares for Potential Referee Lockout

League moves to hire and train replacement officials as contract negotiations stall

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:35am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football game, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract scene.The complex negotiations between the NFL and its referees' union could lead to a return of replacement officials, raising concerns about the quality and integrity of the game.Phoenix Today

The NFL is taking steps to hire and train replacement officials in the coming weeks as negotiations with the referees' union have been unsuccessful, according to two people familiar with the discussions. The current collective bargaining agreement between the league and the NFL Referees Association expires on May 31, and the two sides remain at odds over compensation and performance-based pay.

Why it matters

The use of replacement officials in 2012 led to several high-profile mistakes and controversies, including the 'Fail Mary' play. Avoiding a similar situation is crucial for the league's credibility and the quality of gameplay.

The details

The NFL has offered a 6.45% annual growth rate in compensation over a six-year labor deal, but the NFLRA wants a 10% increase plus $2.5 million for marketing fees. The league also wants to tie compensation to performance and have more flexibility in assigning officials for the postseason. Additionally, the NFL is seeking to shorten the 'dark period' where there is limited communication with officials between the Super Bowl and mid-May.

  • The current CBA expires on May 31, 2026.
  • The NFL plans to begin hiring and training replacement officials in the next several weeks.

The players

NFL Referees Association

The union representing NFL game officials, which has been negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement with the league.

NFL Competition Committee

The committee that has proposed a contingency plan to allow the replay center in New York to advise on-field officials on certain missed calls, which will be voted on by NFL owners this week.

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What’s next

NFL owners will vote this week on the competition committee's proposal to allow the replay center to advise on-field officials on certain missed calls as a contingency plan.

The takeaway

The ongoing contract dispute between the NFL and its referees' union raises concerns about the potential for a repeat of the 2012 season, when replacement officials led to numerous high-profile mistakes. Both sides must find a compromise to ensure the quality and integrity of NFL games.