The NFL has revealed the officiating crews that will oversee the 2026 Divisional Playoff games. As the playoffs approach, the emphasis on precise officiating intensifies, especially after a season where referees faced scrutiny for their decisions. Controversial calls in the regular season can spark widespread debate, but similar mistakes in the playoffs could lead to a team”s elimination from championship contention.
This year, four distinct officiating crews will manage the four Divisional Round matchups, and notably, none of these crews officiated during the Wild Card weekend. Each crew comprises officials with varying responsibilities, ensuring the highest standard of officiating during critical games.
Referee Assignments for the Divisional Round
The following are the officiating crews assigned to this year”s playoff games:
- Bills vs. Broncos
- Referee/Crew Chief: Carl Cheffers
- Umpire: Mark Pellis
- Down Judge: Jerod Phillips
- Line Judge: Rusty Baynes
- Field Judge: Jabir Walker
- Side Judge: Allen Baynes
- Back Judge: Scott Helverson
- 49ers vs. Seahawks
- Referee/Crew Chief: John Hussey
- Umpire: Roy Ellison
- Down Judge: Danny Short
- Line Judge: Tim Podraza
- Field Judge: Nate Jones
- Side Judge: Boris Cheek
- Back Judge: Martin Hankins
- Texans vs. Patriots
- Referee/Crew Chief: Shawn Smith
- Umpire: Scott Walker
- Down Judge: Dana McKenzie
- Line Judge: Julian Mapp
- Field Judge: Jason Ledet
- Side Judge: Eugene Hall
- Back Judge: Grantis Bell
- Rams vs. Bears
- Referee/Crew Chief: Shawn Hochuli
- Umpire: Bryan Neale
- Down Judge: Patrick Holt
- Line Judge: Brian Perry
- Field Judge: Anthony Flemming
- Side Judge: Chad Hill
- Back Judge: Greg Steed
Understanding Officials” Roles
The responsibilities of the officiating crew are critical to maintaining the integrity of the game. The Referee serves as the final authority on all rulings, primarily monitoring the quarterback for any infractions such as roughing the passer. The Umpire, positioned close to the line of scrimmage, oversees interior linemen, focusing on illegal blocks and offensive holding.
Meanwhile, the Down Judge and Line Judge handle rulings on the sidelines, ensuring players are not offside and monitoring forward progress. Positioned deeper into the secondary, the Field Judge and Side Judge are responsible for observing potential pass interference and illegal contact while also managing the play clock. Lastly, the Back Judge oversees the play clock and monitors actions around the end zone.
As the playoffs unfold, the pressure mounts on these officials to make the right calls, underscoring the vital role they play in shaping the outcomes of these high-stakes games.
