NFL Nears New Referee Deal

The league and its officials are close to finalizing a new collective bargaining agreement that would prevent a work stoppage. A confidential source told the AP that the NFL Referees Association plans to hold a ratification vote this week, following months of stalled talks. The current contract expires on May 31, and both sides have been negotiating a replacement since summer 2024. The NFL has increased its offer to a 6.45% annual wage growth over six years, while the union seeks 10% plus $2.5 million in marketing fees. raccoongame.org