NFL training replacement referees ahead of May 31 labour deadline

The NFL is preparing to use replacement officials from 1 June if its labour dispute with the referees' union (NFLRA) isn't resolved soon.

NFL Network obtained a copy of the memo from the senior vice president of officiating, Perry Fewell, confirming that replacement referees will begin training soon.

The current collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association expires on 31 May.

Talks on a new agreement stalled after the league rejected the union's counterproposal.

Owners voted at the annual league meetings in Arizona to expand the use of replay from NFL headquarters - a contingency measure designed to cover clear on-field errors in the event of a work stoppage.

Stay tuned for more news on how this situation plays out.