Football Zebras

Breaking down the new NFL officiating hires

by Mark Schultz - May 3, 2022May 3, 2022 31981

Football Zebras was first to report the news on May 3 that the NFL hired 10 new officials. As we digest the news, here are a few things that I have noticed. Commitment to diversity The NFL continues to hire minority and female officials. Down judge Robin DeLorenzo (pictured) becomes the third woman

We’ve seen this before: Lack of experience part of the problem in 2015

by Mark Schultz - November 28, 2015October 16, 2019 156755

Too many new(er) officials can make for a rocky season The 1990s were a time of upheaval for NFL officiating. Art McNally retired after a long career as the NFL officiating boss. Jerry Seeman succeeded McNally. Seeman was ready build on McNally's work and that work included making an imprint on

Sarah Thomas promotion on hold for now with 2nd year in development program

News

by Mark Schultz - May 2, 2014May 16, 2014 49511

21 advanced training officials include 7 from '13 taxi squad The NFL has released the names of the college officials who will participate in the 2014 advanced training program.Â The list includes two women: Sarah Thomas returns for a second year and Maia Chaka joins the program for her first year. What

Former official explains new hires’ orientation

Outside the Stripes

by Mark Schultz - May 17, 2013May 17, 2013 05834

How does the NFL get their new officials up to speed? Larry Upson knows what it is like to be hired into the NFL. Â Upson was an NFL official from 1993-98 before moving into the front office to become Mike Pereira's assistant. Â Upson then became supervisor of the now defunct United