NFL officials are often under scrutiny for what they do on the field during games. However, Jeff Lamberth and Tripp Sutter find themselves under fire for something they did following the game.
Following the Panthers’ 21-3 win over the Buccaneers in Week 7, Lamberth, a side judge, and Sutter, a line judge, were seen following Tampa Bay receiver Mike Evans into the tunnel. A video captured them approaching Evans and apparently asking for an autograph.
It appeared that Lamberth was the one to flag down Evans for the signature while Sutter passed by and appeared to point at something on the card.
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Below is a look at the video of the situation, via Panthers reporter Sheena Quick.
I didn’t know refs get autographs after the game. pic.twitter.com/4IgUHIiAgz
— Sheena Quick (@Sheena_Marie3) October 23, 2022
That video circled on social media Monday and that prompted the league to launch an investigation into the matter, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The NFL’s collective bargaining with the NFL Referees Association states that officials “shall not … ask players, coaches or any other team personnel for autographs or memorabilia.”
It’s easy to understand why this protocol is in place. The NFL needs to ensure that officials have no bias toward any specific team or player when they are on the field. Even if it doesn’t impact the way the game is officiated, the NFL will look to avoid public perception that certain officials play favorites.
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The NFL has had situations like this unfold before. As noted by Football Zebras on Twitter, Jerry Bergman Sr. was once disciplined for asking Brett Favre for an autograph before a 1995 Packers-Buccaneers game.
And, I know it happens. It doesn’t make it right. The venerable Jerry Bergman Sr. sought an autograph from Brett Favre before a game for his grandchild in his final season. He was rightfully called out and disciplined for it. Also, it’s unfair to put players in such a position.
— Fᴏᴏᴛʙᴀʟʟ Zᴇʙʀᴀs🇺🇦 (@footballzebras) October 24, 2022
“That’s the first time I’ve ever seen that,” Favre said the Monday after that game, per the Los Angeles Times.
It’s unclear exactly what Bergman’s discipline was, but it is likely that Lamberth and Sutter will face some consequences for their actions. Lamberth is in his 21st season as an official while Sutter is in his fourth.
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