Posted on Dec 10

NFL, NFLRA negotiate new CBA as current agreement nears expiration in May

Posted Dec 10, 2025

The NFL is in critical negotiations with the NFL Referees Association as the current collective bargaining agreement faces expiration at the end of May.

Why it matters: The outcome of these negotiations could fundamentally reshape officiating standards in the league, impacting everything from how officials are evaluated to their training and development opportunities.

With the current CBA set to expire, the urgency for both sides to come to an agreement has escalated, especially given the implications for the upcoming season.
High-performing officials may find themselves incentivized under a new structure that rewards performance rather than tenure.

What’s new: The NFL's priorities for the new CBA include enhancing accountability among officials and refining their evaluation process.

Proposed changes suggest a longer probationary period for new officials, allowing more time for assessment before permanent placement.
Additionally, the league aims to shorten the dead period during which officials cannot be contacted, currently extending from the Super Bowl until mid-May.

Yes, but: While the NFL expresses its commitment to improving officiating, past negotiations have been contentious.

The last major lockout in 2012 lasted 110 days and resulted in widespread criticism due to poorly officiated games by replacement referees, underlining the importance of stable negotiations.
Scott Green, head of the NFLRA, emphasized the need to keep discussions out of the media for productive dialogue, indicating a cautious approach moving forward.

What to watch: As the deadline approaches, observers should look for signs of compromise between the two parties.

Key issues like postseason flexibility, where performance takes precedence over seniority, will likely be focal points in upcoming discussions.
The potential establishment of a practice squad for officials could indicate a long-term strategy for developing officiating talent.

The bottom line: The negotiations between the NFL and the NFLRA are pivotal not just for game officials, but also for the integrity of the league itself.

A successful agreement could lead to improved officiating standards that benefit players, teams, and ultimately fans, while a failure to reach consensus might resurrect tensions reminiscent of previous labor disputes.

NFL, NFLRA negotiate new CBA as current agreement nears expiration in May

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 10, 2025

The NFL is in critical negotiations with the NFL Referees Association as the current collective bargaining agreement faces expiration at the end of May.

With the current CBA set to expire, the urgency for both sides to come to an agreement has escalated, especially given the implications for the upcoming season.

High-performing officials may find themselves incentivized under a new structure that rewards performance rather than tenure.

What’s new: The NFL's priorities for the new CBA include enhancing accountability among officials and refining their evaluation process.

Proposed changes suggest a longer probationary period for new officials, allowing more time for assessment before permanent placement.

Additionally, the league aims to shorten the dead period during which officials cannot be contacted, currently extending from the Super Bowl until mid-May.

Yes, but: While the NFL expresses its commitment to improving officiating, past negotiations have been contentious.

The last major lockout in 2012 lasted 110 days and resulted in widespread criticism due to poorly officiated games by replacement referees, underlining the importance of stable negotiations.

Scott Green, head of the NFLRA, emphasized the need to keep discussions out of the media for productive dialogue, indicating a cautious approach moving forward.

What to watch: As the deadline approaches, observers should look for signs of compromise between the two parties.

Key issues like postseason flexibility, where performance takes precedence over seniority, will likely be focal points in upcoming discussions.

The potential establishment of a practice squad for officials could indicate a long-term strategy for developing officiating talent.

The bottom line: The negotiations between the NFL and the NFLRA are pivotal not just for game officials, but also for the integrity of the league itself.

A successful agreement could lead to improved officiating standards that benefit players, teams, and ultimately fans, while a failure to reach consensus might resurrect tensions reminiscent of previous labor disputes.