Daily Madden: It's Time For Female Refs In The NFL
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) - Shannon Eastin will be the first woman to officiate an NFL game when she steps on the field as a line judge in Thursday night's pre-season match-up between the Packers and the Chargers.
"I think it's a big deal for women who want to get into professional sports through officiating," John Madden told the KCBS morning crew. "I think the day has come. I know this is a replacement situation, but I don't think the day is far off that there are going to be women officials in the NFL."
The NFL's regular refs are locked out in a labor dispute with the league.
"What you want is competency and consistency. If they're competent and they're consistent, then that's what you're looking for in officials," said the former coach.
Signed by the Seahawks after a year away from pro football, former 49ers star receiver Terrell Owens told reporters at training camp that he has a new humbler attitude.
"Age and the end does kind of humble one," Madden said. Owens is 38 years old. "He was out for a year, he had an injury, and (until now) no one would give him a shot. He's about as close to being out and finished with pro football as you can get... This is a last shot for him." (7:40)
Listen to the John Madden segment live weekday mornings at 8:15 on KCBS All News 740 AM/106.9 FM.
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