NFL Set to Hire Replacement Officials Amid Stalled Negotiations

League and referees' union at impasse over new contract terms

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football field with players and officials in motion, rendered in the bold colors of NFL team uniforms.The impending use of replacement officials could lead to inconsistencies and controversies that disrupt the integrity of the NFL game.Minneapolis Today

The NFL is moving forward with plans to begin hiring and training 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 have been unable to reach a new deal despite the league increasing its offer to a 6.45% annual growth rate in compensation over a six-year contract.

Why it matters

The use of replacement officials could lead to inconsistencies and controversies during games, potentially impacting the quality of play and the integrity of the league. This is the latest labor dispute between the NFL and its officials, who have previously gone on strike or been locked out during contract negotiations.

The details

The NFL has increased its offer to the referees' union to 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, according to the sources. The league is now moving forward with plans to hire and train replacement officials in the next several weeks, the sources said.

  • The current CBA between the NFL and the NFLRA expires on May 31, 2026.

The players

NFL

The National Football League, the professional American football league.

NFL Referees Association

The labor union representing the on-field officials who oversee NFL games.

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What’s next

The league and the referees' union will continue negotiations in the coming weeks in an effort to reach a new collective bargaining agreement before the current one expires on May 31.

The takeaway

The potential use of replacement officials during the 2026 NFL season raises concerns about the quality and consistency of officiating, which could impact the integrity of the game. Both sides will need to find common ground on key economic issues to avoid a disruption to the upcoming season.