NFL and referees' union in ongoing negotiations over collective bargaining agreement

The National Football League and the NFL Referees Association remain in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement, which is set to expire on May 31, 2026.[1][2]

The league has begun preparations for potential replacement officials should talks extend into the 2026 season, according to internal emails reviewed by ESPN. Pro Football Talk first reported the possibility of the NFL turning to replacement referees if negotiations become contentious.[1][2]

ESPN college football analyst and "Pat McAfee Show" host Pat McAfee, a former Indianapolis Colts punter, criticized the prospect on X, stating, "Nope we can’t be doing replacement high school refs in the nfl again."[3] McAfee called for greater accountability among officials, adapting to technology, and commitment to the game, while referencing the 2012 officiating lockout.

During a 2012 labor dispute, the NFL used replacement officials from Division III colleges, high schools, and minor leagues for Weeks 1-3. The controversy peaked on September 24, 2012, when replacement officials ruled a "Fail Mary" Hail Mary pass as a touchdown for the Seattle Seahawks over the Green Bay Packers in a Monday Night Football game, prompting the return of locked-out officials.[4][5]

The NFL has sought to enhance officiating through increased accountability and performance standards, as stated in 2024 communications: the league aimed to "improve the performance of our game officials, increase accountability, and ensure that the highest-performing officials are officiating our highest profile games."[1]