By [BEN NAGLE, US SPORTS EDITOR](/profile-154/ben-nagle.html)
Published: 18:04 BST, 8 May 2026 | Updated: 18:04 BST, 8 May 2026
The NFL has finally put pen to paper on a new collective bargaining agreement with its officials, ending the possibility of a referee strike hampering the 2026 season.
The current agreement was due to expire on May 31, and the lack of a new deal had sparked fears of a repeat of 2012's disaster, when replacement refs were brought in.
Most notably, a Week 3 clash between the Packers and Seahawks became known as the 'Fail Mary' game, after a botched game-winning call led to two referees standing alongside each other making opposing signals.
The NFL has avoided any issues now, though, with ESPN's Adam Schefter first reporting that a new seven-year agreement has been reached after weeks of discussions.
On X, he revealed that the CBA will run through the 2032 season.
NFL Network's Adam Pelissero shared more information about the agreement, reporting that it includes 'increased access to officials in the offseason', development of a "bench" of officials, and a new formal training program.'
More to follow.