NFL Owners to Vote on Addition of Sky Judge Next Week
NFL owners will vote on the addition of a booth umpire or “sky judge” at next weeks second round of virtual league meetings, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
The two proposals involving a "sky judge" concept also remain on the docket for discussion at next Thursday's virtual meeting. Regardless of whether either passes, some version likely will be tested in the preseason.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 21, 2020
The proposal — introduced by the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers — would introduce an eighth game official in the booth, who would have access to additional video feeds and consult the on-field umpires. It is still unclear how much decision making power or influence the “sky judge” would have.
The Ravens and Chargers also submitted a proposal to add a senior technology advisor that would assist the officiating crew on game day.
According to Pelissero, the Competition Committee expressed support for further exploration of the idea last month.
In last month's Competition Committee report, the committee said it supports further analysis of on-field officials being assisted by officiating personnel who have access to a video feed. That is significant; where that personnel's power would begin and end is a big question. https://t.co/l0kTC2CYfE
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 21, 2020
The “sky judge” proposal would act as a replacement for the NFL’s disastrous attempt at instituting replay for pass interference calls. Conducted on a trial-run basis last season, pass interference replay will not return in 2020.
In addition to the booth umpire and senior technology advisor proposals, owners will also vote on an alternative to the onside kick during their second virtual meeting on May 28.
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