The NFL is taking proactive steps to limit the possibility of a work stoppage involving the referees' union, but could the league's plans backfire?

The league is on the verge of locking out its officials for the first time since 2012, when it used sub-standard replacement referees. It’s hoping to avoid similar chaos.

Players are silent, for now, on effort to entrust officiating to amateurs, again.

The NFL plans to hire replacement referees due to a labor dispute, sparking fears of a repeat of the 2012 'Fail Mary' season.

La última incursión de la NFL en el uso de árbitros sustitutos terminó en una vergüenza para la liga, cuando una decisión mal tomada y una confusión casi cómica en un partido en horario estelar llevaron al fin de un cierre patronal que empañó las primeras tres semanas de la temporada 2012.

The NFL’s labor agreement with the NFL Referees Association expires May 31, raising the possibility of replacement officials.

The NFL is on the brink of a major change in 2026. According to ESPN, the NFL is reportedly ‘laying groundwork’ for hiring replacement officials for the upcoming season amid ongoing

In the event of another lockout of game officials, the NFL has the concepts of a plan.

Imagine the NFL without its familiar referees. It might not sound realistic, but it is becoming a possibility for the 2026 season.