NFL, Referees Union Near New Deal, Avoiding Strike

The NFL and the NFL Referees Association are close to a new collective bargaining agreement that would avoid a work stoppage. A source said the union plans to hold a ratification vote this week, after negotiations resumed from a stalemate last month. The current CBA expires on May 31, and the league has offered a 6.45% annual pay rise over six years, while the union seeks 10% plus $2.5 million in marketing fees. michezonews.co.za