The NFL just finished a labor dispute with the NFL players and the players union, but they have an new labor fight on their hands with NFL officials and the officials union. The CBA between the two sides expired on May 31st, and officials from each side met for mediation, but it does not look like there was significant progress made.
Without significant progress, the NFL could look for replacement umpires.
Talks between NFL and officials for new deal have broken off. NFL has advised all teams it is now working to hire replacement officials.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 4, 2012
Shefter also notes that the NFL could be looking to hire replacement officials from anywhere but the BCS, including retired college officials, ones from small college conferences and even the Arena Football League.
For more on the issues with NFL officials, stay tuned to this StoryStream and SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.