Super Bowl LX is not just about elite players, iconic halftime performances, and championship glory—it’s also about elite officiating. For the 2026 NFL championship showdown between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, the league has selected a highly experienced and carefully balanced officiating crew to manage the biggest game of the season.
The NFL follows strict evaluation standards when choosing Super Bowl officials. Only referees with consistent accuracy, strong game management skills, and multiple years of postseason experience earn the honor. Super Bowl LX will be overseen by seven on-field officials, supported by replay specialists and alternate officials, ensuring fairness, precision, and smooth game flow from kickoff to the final whistle.
Super Bowl LX 2026 Game Officials
The primary officiating crew for Super Bowl LX represents a mix of veteran leadership and proven on-field excellence:
- Referee: Shawn Smith (No. 14)
Shawn Smith will take charge of the game as the referee, marking his first Super Bowl as the lead on-field official. His selection reflects years of strong performance and reliability. Smith previously served as an alternate referee in earlier Super Bowls, making this a well-earned promotion. - Umpire: Roy Ellison (No. 81)
Responsible for monitoring interior line play and player safety, Ellison brings sharp judgment and calm authority. - Down Judge: Dana McKenzie (No. 8)
McKenzie handles sideline responsibilities, including spotting the ball and managing the chain crew. - Line Judge: Julian Mapp (No. 10)
Known for precision along the line of scrimmage, Mapp plays a key role in offsides and false start calls. - Field Judge: Jason Ledet (No. 72)
Ledet oversees deep pass coverage and sideline plays downfield. - Side Judge: Eugene Hall (No. 103)
Hall supports deep coverage and monitors receivers and defenders on the outside. - Back Judge: Greg Steed (No. 12)
Steed focuses on end-zone coverage, tight end play, and game clock responsibilities.
Replay Officials for Super Bowl LX
Replay accuracy is critical in modern NFL games, especially on the championship stage:
- Replay Official: Andrew Lambert
- Replay Assistant: Julie Johnson
This duo ensures that every scoring play, turnover, and critical ruling is reviewed with advanced technology and expert judgment.
Alternate Officials Selected
The NFL also appoints alternates who are fully prepared to step in if needed:
- Alternate Referee: Shawn Hochuli (No. 83)
- Alternate Umpire: Terry Killens (No. 83)
- Alternate Down Judge: David Oliver
- Alternate Line Judge: Tom Eaton
- Alternate Field Judge: Jabir Walker
- Alternate Side Judge: Anthony Jeffries
- Alternate Back Judge: Brad Freeman
- Alternate Replay Official: Chad Adams
Why This Officiating Crew Matters
Super Bowl LX demands neutrality, consistency, and instant decision-making under pressure. With millions of viewers worldwide and championship stakes on the line, this experienced officiating team ensures the Patriots vs. Seahawks matchup is decided by performance—not controversy.
As kickoff approaches, fans can trust that Super Bowl LX 2026 will be officiated at the highest professional standard the NFL has to offer.