NFL fires 3 officials in unprecedented move, relegates them to College Football ranks
The National Football League (NFL) has taken a historic step by dismissing three officials and relegating them to collegiate conferences ahead of the 2025 season, according to a report by Football Zebras. This marks the first time the league has directly demoted referees to lower-tier roles rather than allowing them to independently seek new opportunities.
Officials Involved and Performance Concerns
The affected officials include second-year umpire James Carter, third-year line judge Robin DeLorenzo, and first-year down judge Robert Richeson. Carter served as an alternate during the 2024 wild-card round, while DeLorenzo failed to qualify for playoff assignments in her eligible seasons. Richeson, as a rookie, was ineligible for postseason duties. Their relegation underscores the NFL’s intensified focus on performance metrics, with data analysis now playing a central role in evaluating officials’ season-long improvement.
Relegation Process and Union Bypass
Unlike typical dismissals, the NFL negotiated directly with the officials to accept demotions to Power 4 college conferences, circumventing the NFL Referees Association’s grievance procedures. This approach suggests a potential framework for future disciplinary or developmental actions. Notably, the league retains the authority to relegate officials to college ranks if they consent, raising questions about bargaining power and career pathways.
Implications for Officiating Development
The move may signal the creation of a formalized pipeline between collegiate and professional officiating. While the relegated trio’s return to the NFL remains uncertain, the league appears to be testing a structured redevelopment program. Current college officials aiming for the NFL could face stricter promotion criteria, requiring demonstrable growth through this new system. As the NFL prioritizes data-driven accountability, this precedent could redefine how officiating careers are managed across football’s highest levels.
