Al Riveron Will Return as NFL's VP of Officiating Despite Scrutiny over Replay

Al Riveron will return as the NFL's senior vice president of officiating in 2018 despite some controversial moments that led to him receiving criticism last season. 

ESPN's Kevin Seifert reported Riveron will be back for a second season to oversee every aspect of the NFL's officiating department. 

Riveron was a target of heavy criticism for overturning what would have been a touchdown reception by Buffalo Bills wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin against the New England Patriots in Week 16.

Benjamin appeared to secure the pass from quarterback Tyrod Taylor and drag both of his feet in the back of the end zone, but replay changed the call to an incomplete pass. 

Mike Pereira, who was the NFL's vice president of officiating from 2004-09, disagreed with the decision to overturn the touchdown call:

The NFL did change its replay review system last year when Riveron was hired. He works with Russell Yurk, vice president of instant replay and administration, and Wayne Mackie, vice president of officiating evaluation and development, at the gameday central hub to coordinate on calls under review. 

Prior to being named senior vice president of officiating, Riveron was an NFL official and referee from 2004-12.