This week’s Monday Night Football matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers featured the first all-Black officiating crew in NFL history.
What We Know:
- The crew was made up of head referee Jerome Boger, umpire Barry Anderson, down judge Julian Mapp, line judge Carl Johnson, field judge Dale Shaw, side judge Anthony Jeffries, and back judge Greg Steed. Steed is currently officiating his 18th season in the NFL.
- NFL executive VP of football operations Troy Vincent said that it was imperative for the league to bring these officials together to send a message.
“This historic Week 11 crew is a testament to the countless and immeasurable contributions of Black officials to the game, their exemplary performance, and to the power of inclusion that is the hallmark of this great game.” – Troy Vincent, Executive VP of Football Operations
- The NFL has tried to make more strides for representation this season. Week 3’s matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Washington Football Team was the first regular-season game to feature women in the officiating crew and on both coaching staffs: Cleveland chief of staff Callie Brownson, Washington offensive assistant Jennifer King, and referee Sarah Thomas.
- Michael Signora, senior VP of football and international communications, said that there are currently four Black referees and 40 Black game officials of the 121 total. The NFL hired its first Black official, Burl Tover, in 1965 and its first Black referee, Johnny Grier, in 1988.
“I am proud of my heritage and excited about my participation in this historic game. The opportunity to work with a great group of Black officials and exhibit our proficiency in executing our assignment is something I am really looking forward to.” – Jerome Boger, Head Referee
The Rams defeated the Bucs 27-24 and are now first place in the NFC West.
