The new Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association emphasizes competition. And it carries fresh accountability for those who can’t compete.
As mentioned in the ESPN article that takes a close look at the nooks and crannies of the new CBA, underperforming officials can be assigned to the UFL.
The decision would come following a review of the officials “who underperformed during the season, and were not assigned” to a playoff game, NFL V.P. of officiating training and development Ramon George told ESPN. Those officials would work with their supervisors to review each of their calls and to identify any mistakes in mechanics and positioning. Following the review, George will assign officials to work in the UFL, “if necessary.”
It’s unclear how many officials could be assigned to work in the UFL. It’s also not known how that would impact existing UFL officials. Will the NFL officials who are relegated for extra work supplant UFL officials? Will the UFL be able to say, “thanks, but we’re good” and/or “no thanks; that guy sucks”?
Regardless, it’s the first clear connection between the NFL and the UFL, which has become the de facto developmental league for NFL players. Now, it will become the officiating equivalent of being sent to the minors.
It’s another reason for the NFL to have its own developmental league. That likely won’t happen, however, unless and until the NFL sees a way to generate sufficient profit from creating a way for players, officials, coaches, and executives to get real football experience.
Read the full article here
