Image Credits - Bleacher Report
Whether you like them or not, NFL referees play an integral role in the American football league. But how much money do they make every year?
American football officials, or NFL referees, have specific duties when they call games. In an NFL game, there are a total of seven officials who operate on the field of play.
The different referees at a game include the lead referee (the lead member of the officiating team), umpire, head linesman (or down judge), line judge, field judge (or back umpire), side judge, back judge, and center judge.
But while we know that NFL players and coaches receive mammoth salaries, how much do NFL referees earn?
The NFL does not reveal to the general public the salaries it pays to the referees in the league. However, reports from NBCSports claim that NFL officials are paid around $149,000 to $205,000 per year. The report also states that NFL officials can earn an added bonus of anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000 if they are chosen to work for playoff games.
Naturally, the pay scales vary from official to official, in regards to the refereeing position they hold during a game. The NFL also factors in the experience of the referee and how long he/she has worked in the league. Although NFL referees are considered part-time employees, they are given a lucrative pension package as well.
Moreover, NFL referees officiating at the Super Bowl can rake in up to $5,000 – $10,000.
There are certain key criteria required for an official to take up a job in the NFL. In order to become an NFL official, one must have substantial knowledge of the league and have excellent judgement as a primary skill set.
A bachelor’s degree is the least required qualification required to take up a role as an NFL referee. Majoring in sports management or health and field activities is only beneficial.
In order to don the black and white stripes on the field at an NFL game, you must also complete a certain level of training to become an official. After gaining experience and earning certification, it only takes a matter of time to get noticed by the NFL.
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