They have a union and replay. Ben D. sued the NFL for age discrimination and won so there is no madatory retirement age but they have an evaluation process. They also have a contract.
Not really and apples to apples comparison.
Commissioner Goodell explained the present method for retention.
“There are consequences to officials when they make mistakes,” Goodell said. “They are graded every single play of every single game. It is reviewed and graded from an officiating perspective on videotape in the week after the game. Those are used to determine a grade whether you qualify for the postseason-playoffs and ultimately, whether you continue to be an NFL official. If you don’t make the grade, ultimately, you won’t be an NFL game official.”
Another valid point, but that doesn’t mean no better way to train and retain exists or that roles expanded could be beneficial as well.
The game-time duties of apprentices could include laptop input to big screens that explain each rule used during flagged play. When an instant replay is in process, the rule enforced could be visible for fans and commentators. That display could help those who don’t know the rules like officials do.
It might take years to know if a concentrated program like this superzee proposal would function, but if set up in earnest and pursued vigorously, the results could be favorable to the game.
The NFL needs referees anyway. The right long-term program might produce better officials and fewer mistakes.
