The NFL is looking into a video that surfaced on social media that purports to show two game officials seeking an autograph from Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Evans, multiple outlets reported Monday.
Game officials are barred from asking for autographs or memorabilia from players, coaches or staffers.
A video captured by 1340 AM Fox Sports after Sunday’s game between the Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers appears to show side judge Jeff Lamberth and line judge Tripp Sutter calling out to Evans, with each getting an autograph.
That’s a no-no in the NFL-NFL Referees Association collective bargaining agreement.
Game officials “shall not … ask players, coaches or any other team personnel for autographs or memorabilia,” per the CBA.
Lamberth is in his 20th season as an official, having sat out the 2011 campaign. Sutter is in his fourth season.
–Field Level Media
