NFL Prepares for Potential Replacement Refs as Contract Talks Stall

League takes steps to vet and train new officials as negotiations with referees' union remain at an impasse.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:53am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football field and players, with referees represented as abstract shapes, conveying the uncertainty and disruption surrounding the potential use of replacement officials.The complex negotiations between the NFL and its referees' union could lead to a disruption in officiating, as the league prepares to deploy replacement officials.Cincinnati Today

The NFL has begun the process of hiring and vetting replacement referees as contract negotiations with the league's regular officiating crew have stalled. According to reports, several potential replacement officials have already completed background checks and will soon undergo physical exams, with training sessions expected to start as early as next month if a new agreement is not reached by the current contract's expiration on May 31.

Why it matters

The use of replacement referees is a contentious issue, as it can lead to inconsistent officiating and controversies that undermine the integrity of the game. The 2012 lockout that resulted in replacement refs was widely criticized, and the league is eager to avoid a similar situation this time around.

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 union is seeking a 10% increase plus $2.5 million in marketing fees, according to sources. The league has informed teams that replacement officials will be able to work offseason programs and minicamps starting in June if no new agreement is reached.

  • The NFL's collective bargaining agreement with the NFL Referees Association is set to expire on May 31, 2026.
  • The league and the union have been negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement since the summer of 2024.

The players

Perry Fewell

NFL senior vice president of officiating, who informed teams about the league's plans for replacement refs.

Scott Green

NFLRA executive director, who said the reported numbers in the negotiations are not accurate.

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What they’re saying

“Those numbers are not accurate.”

— Scott Green, NFLRA executive director

What’s next

If no new agreement is reached by the May 31 contract expiration, the league will move forward with training and deploying replacement officials to work offseason programs and minicamps starting in June.

The takeaway

The potential use of replacement referees highlights the ongoing tensions between the NFL and its officiating crew, with both sides seeking to secure a favorable deal. The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on the quality and consistency of officiating during the upcoming NFL season.