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

The Baltimore Ravens aren't concerned about any negative impact on their reputation within the NFL after backing out of their trade agreement with the Las Vegas Raiders for Maxx Crosby.

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

The NFL is preparing for the possibility of replacement officials in the 2026 season, proposing a rule change for one season that would allow the replay center in New York to correct any “clear and obvious” mistakes by on-field officials in case of a work stoppage.

While the NFL and the NFL Referees Association have been negotiating the next collective bargaining agreement since the summer of 2024, the two sides reportedly "do not appear any closer on a deal" with the current CBA set to expire in May.

With the NFL facing the possibility of a referee lockout in 2026, the league is trying to insulate himself from serious consequences if it does come to

The NFL appears to be bracing for the idea of at least starting the 2026 season with replacement officials, as […] This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Fail Mary Repeat? NFL Bracing for R

The NFL is moving forward with plans to begin hiring and training replacement officials in the next several weeks because negotiations with the referees’ union have been unsuccessful, two people with knowledge of the discussions told The Associated Press.