Back judge Lawing dies

ROBERT LAWING 1951–2010

Bob Lawing, a back judge in the NFL for 12 seasons, died Thursday after a long battle with cancer, as reported by the Charlotte Observer. He was 58.

Lawing (who wore #17) was listed on the 2009 roster of officials (which was finalized in May 2009) but did not officiate because of his illness. He also took leave in 2007 for similar reasons. His last game was Ravens–Titans AFC Divisional Playoff game after the 2008 season. In the final, game-winning drive, an apparent delay-of-game penalty was not assessed on the Ravens, which was Lawing’s responsibility. His head referee, Terry McAulay backed up the non-call: Because Lawing had to watch the play clock hit zero, then see if the ball is snapped,  there is an understood, built-in, fraction-of-a-section delay if such a penalty is called.

Lawing served as an ACC basketball referee, a property manager, and a Realtor and was involved in various civic organizations. He officiated six NFL playoff games.