Understanding NFL Referee Salaries

Are you curious about how much money NFL referees make per game? The National Football League (NFL) is known for its high salaries for players, but what about the men who officiate the games? This article delves into the various aspects of NFL referee compensation, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of their earnings.

Base Salary and Per Game Pay

The base salary for NFL referees varies depending on their experience and position. According to a report by The Athletic, the starting salary for a referee in the NFL is around $70,000 per year. However, this number can increase significantly with experience.

When it comes to per game pay, NFL referees earn approximately $10,000 to $15,000 per game. This means that a referee who works in the regular season, which consists of 17 games, can earn between $170,000 and $255,000 annually. It’s important to note that this does not include any bonuses or other forms of compensation.

Bonus Structure

In addition to their base salary and per game pay, NFL referees are eligible for various bonuses. One of the most significant bonuses is the playoff bonus. If a referee is selected to officiate in the postseason, they can earn an additional $10,000 to $15,000 per game.

Other bonuses include the Super Bowl bonus, which is typically around $25,000, and the Pro Bowl bonus, which is approximately $10,000. These bonuses can significantly increase a referee’s annual earnings.

Experience and Positional Pay

Experience plays a crucial role in determining an NFL referee’s salary. As mentioned earlier, the starting salary is around $70,000, but this can increase to as much as $200,000 or more for experienced referees. The salary also varies depending on the referee’s position. For example, the head referee earns more than the line judges or side judges.

Here is a breakdown of the average salary for different positions:

Position	Average Salary
Head Referee	$200,000 – $250,000
Line Judge	$150,000 – $180,000
Side Judge	$130,000 – $160,000
Back Judge	$120,000 – $150,000
Field Judge	$110,000 – $140,000

Other Forms of Compensation

In addition to their salary and bonuses, NFL referees may receive other forms of compensation. For example, they may receive travel expenses for away games, as well as accommodations and meals during the postseason.

Conclusion

While the salary for NFL referees may not be as high as that of the players, it is still a significant income for those who officiate the games. With a base salary, per game pay, and various bonuses, NFL referees can earn a substantial amount of money. Understanding the different aspects of their compensation can help you appreciate the work they do on and off the field.