The NFL has finally put pen to paper on a new collective bargaining agreement with its officials, ending the possibility of a referee strike hampering the 2026 season.
The current agreement was due to expire on May 31, and the lack of a new deal had sparked fears of a repeat of 2012’s disaster, when replacement refs were brought in.
Most notably, a Week 3 clash between the Packers and Seahawks became known as the ‘Fail Mary’ game, after a botched game-winning call led to two referees standing alongside each other making opposing signals.
The NFL has avoided any issues now, though, with ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reporting that a new seven-year agreement has been reached after weeks of discussions.
On X, he revealed that the CBA will run through the 2032 season.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero shared more information about the agreement, reporting that it includes ‘increased access to officials in the offseason’, development of a “bench” of officials, and a new formal training program.’
In a statement sent to reporters, the NFL’s Executive Vice President of Football Operations, Troy Vincent, said: ‘This agreement is testament to the joint commitment of the league and union to invest in and improve officiating.
‘It also speaks to the game officials’ relentless pursuit of improvement and officiating excellence. We look forward to working together for the betterment of the game.’
The deal has been approved by the NFL Referees Association Board of Directors and ratified by a vote of its members.Â
NFLRA President Carl Cheffers added: ‘We see this new CBA as a partnership with the league that benefits our membership but also seeks to make our game better.Â
‘It is good to get these negotiations behind us so we can focus on preparing for the 2026 season.’
