Post-game interaction between two game officials and the recipient of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mike Evans The NFL said in a statement on Tuesday that it did not include a signature request.
After the Buccaneers lost 21-3 on Sunday to the Carolina Panthers, 1340 a.m. Fox Sports picked up a video From side judge Jeff Lamberth and font judge Trip Sutter calling out the name Evans. Then Evans wrote something on a card they handed him.
A collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association prohibits game officials from approaching players and coaches to obtain signatures, citing appearances of bias. Officials can obtain autographs and memorabilia for charitable purposes, but these requests must go through the department responsible for the association.
After conversations with the individuals involved, the association decided that Lamberth and Sutter had not requested an autograph. The league did not specify why they called Evans, nor what was said during the interaction. Asked to follow up, an NFL spokesperson said the league had no other details to share.
There was no immediate response to a request for comment from the NFLRA.
The NFL statement made no mention of discipline for any of the officials, but the league added: “Both Lamberth and Sutter have been reminded of the importance of avoiding even the appearance of inappropriateness when interacting with players, coaches and club staff in a game – including pre- and post-game periods. .”
Lamberth in his 21st NFL season, and Sutter in his fourth season.
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