NFL Preparing for Replacement Refs in 2026

0:00It's March 18th, here's your NFL news in two minutes. The NFL might bring back replacement referees for the 2026 season. According to a report from ESPN's Kevin Cypher earlier this week, the league is preparing to hire them if it can't reach a new deal with the NFL, Referee's Association. This comes down to the collective bargaining agreement between the two sides. Without a fresh contract, the league wants to have backups ready to keep games moving. Fans still remember the headaches from replacement refs back in 2012 when controversial calls sparked huge backlash. That lockout lasted weeks and tested everyone's patience. Right now, talk seemed tense, but no final decisions have dropped. Officials are laying the groundwork just in case things stall out. We'll keep an eye on updates as negotiations heat up, could be smooth sailing or another round of ref drama ahead. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds.

1:00Built for listening in bed, S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.