Discover the evolution of professional officiating, the weekly evaluation process and how the NFL identifies and develops the next generation of officials.
History of the Officials
Officiating has changed since the NFL’s infancy, but officials’ primary objectives — consistency and excellence — remain the same. Read about the “custodians of the game” and the visionaries behind major advancements in the art (and science) of officiating.
Learn MoreInside NFL GameDay Central
Go behind the scenes at Art McNally GameDay Central — the league's officiating command center.
Learn MoreThese Officials are Really Good
The NFL’s 124 officials aren’t always perfect, but the league’s rigorous evaluation process shows that they are very close. Fans may not always agree with every call, but one thing is certain: These officials are good.
Learn MoreOfficiating Development
NFL officials are the best of the best — only 124 officials currently have the privilege of calling football games at the highest level. No one officiates forever, so the NFL’s Officiating Department continuously develops a robust talent pipeline to ensure that the next generation of officials is ready to step up when needed.
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NFL Football Operations’ mission is to establish a culture of clarity, consistency and credibility in all aspects of the greatest game. Football is an essential piece of America’s fabric, uniting fans, players and communities with a simple yet powerful bond. We honor the game’s history while continuing to innovate and preserve the sport for future generations of fans, players, coaches, teams and officials.
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