In the NFL, we would like the players to decide the game, but that’s not always the case. A lot of the time, it’s the referees who have the largest impact on the game. Missed calls, soft penalties, and controversial decisions can all change the course of a game in an instant. Whether it’s a questionable pass interference call or a missed holding penalty, the officials’ judgments can swing the momentum and ultimately influence the outcome.

Now let’s take a closer look at how much those zebra-clad whistle-blowers make referring America’s most popular sport.

How Much Do NFL Refs Make? The Average NFL Referee Salary!

I know what you’re thinking: “Who cares how much refs make? I just want to bet on NFL football and win!” Fair point, but hear me out. When you’re trying to make those winning picks, every detail matters, even the refs enforcing the rules. Are they being paid enough to be masters of their craft?

How Much Does an NFL Ref Make?

NFL referees are compensated handsomely for their critical role in the game. As of 2024, the average NFL referee salary is estimated to be around $205,000 to $250,000 per year. This figure includes their base salary and game fees, reflecting the high stakes and intense scrutiny they face every week.

Entry-level referees who are just starting their careers in the NFL can expect to earn between $100,000 and $200,000 per season. As they gain more experience and officiate in more high-profile games, including playoff matches and the Super Bowl, their compensation can increase significantly. Veteran referees, who have demonstrated their expertise and reliability over many seasons, can command salaries upwards of $200,000, not including additional bonuses for postseason games.

The NFL referee salary per game varies, with reports suggesting that the highest per-game salary for NFL refs is around $1,500. However, this amount can nearly double for postseason games, reflecting the increased intensity and importance of these matchups.

How Often Do NFL Refs Travel?

NFL referees are constantly on the move, traveling from city to city to officiate games. They are required to arrive at least 24 hours before a game, and the league covers all their travel expenses, including first-class flights and accommodations. This frequent travel is a significant part of their job, as they need to be present at various stadiums across the country throughout the season.

During the season, referees typically work 20-25 hours per week, not including travel time. For head referees, this can increase to 30-35 hours per week. Their week usually starts with a review of the previous game, followed by preparation for the upcoming match. This includes studying team formations, understanding play tendencies, and taking written tests on the rules of the game.

Despite the demanding travel schedule, many NFL referees maintain other professional careers outside of football. They often juggle their officiating duties with their primary jobs, making their role as an NFL referee a part-time yet highly demanding commitment.

Can NFL Refs Get Fired?

Yes, NFL referees can get fired for poor performance. While it is rare, there have been instances where referees were dismissed mid-season due to egregious mistakes. One notable example is Hugo Cruz, who was fired in 2018 after missing a blatant false start during a game between the Cleveland Browns and the Los Angeles Chargers.

The NFL has a rigorous evaluation process to ensure that referees maintain high standards. Officiating supervisors review every play from all seven on-field officiating positions, identifying successes, areas for improvement, and points to emphasize. Referees receive feedback early in the week and are provided with training videos to help them handle specific calls better.

Referees who perform well are rewarded with assignments to officiate postseason games, which come with higher pay. Conversely, those who perform poorly may be demoted, subject to remediation, or not brought back for the following season. This system ensures that only the best referees are on the field, maintaining the integrity and fairness of the game.

What Happens If A Player Hits a Ref in the NFL?

Making any sort of contact with a referee is the ultimate faux pas that can lead to severe penalties, including fines and suspensions. Given their crucial role in maintaining the game’s order and fairness, the NFL has strict rules to protect officials.

If a player intentionally hits a referee, they can expect immediate ejection from the game, followed by a review from the league. Depending on the severity of the incident, the player may face additional disciplinary actions, such as hefty fines and multi-game suspensions. These penalties are designed to deter players from engaging in any behavior that could endanger the officials.

Inadvertent contact with a referee, while less severe, can still result in penalties. Players are expected to be aware of the officials’ positions on the field and avoid any unnecessary contact. The league takes any form of aggression towards referees very seriously, ensuring that the officials can perform their duties without fear of harm.

The Final Whistle

The role of an NFL referee is demanding, both physically and mentally, but it comes with substantial financial rewards. The average salary ranges from $205,000 to $250,000 per year, with additional bonuses for postseason games. But the truly gifted referees do their job for the love and integrity of the game.

These officials travel extensively, balancing their personal lives and officiating duties with other professional commitments. While they can be fired for poor performance, the league has a robust evaluation system to ensure high standards are maintained. And, of course, hitting a referee is a serious offense that can lead to significant penalties.

Next time your about to unload on an NFL referee for a bad call remember that they are paid prepare for every game and the last thing they want to do is affect the final score and your NFL bets.