The National Football League released a statement approximately an hour and a half ago that states that they are going to begin the process of hiring and training replacement officials. Personally, I wasn't even aware that the league and the officialss were negotiating, but apparently they have been.
Negotiations with the NFL Referees Association on a new collective bargaining agreement remain unresolved and the previous CBA has expired. Therefore, in order to ensure that there is no disruption to NFL games this season we will proceed immediately with the hiring and training of replacement officials.
Our goal is to maintain the highest quality of officiating for our teams, players, and fans, including proper enforcement of the playing rules and efficient management of our games.
Another negotiating session took place Sunday under the auspices of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. We appreciate the efforts of the FMCS and will continue to be available to the NFLRA and the FMCS to negotiate a fair resolution. We have great respect for our officials and in keeping with that view have made a proposal that includes substantial increases in compensation for all game officials.
I'm not sure how long it would take to teach replacement officials which teams automatically get all the calls the finer nuances of the NFL game, but it looks as though that process might be getting started.
The statement also says that regional training sessions for replacement officials will begin later this month. So, I guess if you have any sort of officiating experience and would be interested in this sort of thing, keep your eyes open for that.