NFL Refs Association Blasts 'Insulting' Conspiracy Theories About Integrity of Games

NFL officials are letting their voices be heard amid conspiracy theories that one team received favorable treatment throughout the 2024 season.

Ahead of Sunday's Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, NFL Referees Association executive director Scott Green released a statement saying, "It is insulting and preposterous to hear conspiracy theories that somehow 17 officiating crews consisting of 138 officials are colluding to assist one team."

The NFLRA thanked commissioner Roger Goodell for his comments on Monday about the officials' "unwavering dedication to fairness and maintaining the integrity of the game."

"It reminds me of the script, that I write a script for the entire season... It's a ridiculous theory, for anyone who might take it seriously," Goodell said of the notion that the referees favor one team.

Goodell admitted that there is room for improvement regarding the league's officiating, suggesting that the league will explore ways to review plays like facemask penalties. He was also asked about the possibility of creating a penalty for flopping, and he said he doesn't view that as a major issue but wouldn't be surprised if it was discussed by the competition committee.

"I'm proud of what they do, but that doesn't mean we're not trying to get better," Goodell said.

Green added in his statement that the NFLRA is committed to avoiding mistakes going forward.

"You can rest assured that on every single down, NFL Officials, both on the field and in the replay booth, are doing everything humanly possible to officiate every play correctly," Green said.