NFL, Referees Near Deal to Avoid Strike

The NFL and the NFL Referees Association are moving closer to a new collective bargaining agreement, with the union planning a ratification vote this week to avert a work stoppage. Negotiations have stalled since the summer, but the league has offered a 6.45% annual raise over six years, while the union seeks 10% plus $2.5 million in marketing fees. sportnewz.click