NFL Launches Investigation Into Referee Carl Cheffers Over Chiefs Game Controversies

September , 2025 — New York, NY

— The NFL has opened a formal investigation into longtime referee Carl Cheffers amid growing allegations of bias and questionable decisions in games involving the Kansas City Chiefs.

The most recent flashpoint came during the Week 1 International Series matchup in São Paulo, Brazil, between the Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers. In the third quarter, Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart slapped the facemask of tight end Travis Kelce following a Kareem Hunt run.

While Tart was penalized 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct, he was not ejected. Moments later, he batted down a key Patrick Mahomes pass, helping the Chargers swing momentum in what became a pivotal sequence. Chiefs fans erupted in anger, arguing the outcome was directly impacted by Cheffers’ decision to keep Tart in the game.

This is not the first time Cheffers has been at the center of controversy in Kansas City. His crew famously penalized the Chiefs 11 times for 120 yards in Super Bowl LV, compared to just four flags on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. That disparity remains a sore subject among Chiefs supporters.

The combination of the Super Bowl history and the latest incident has fueled accusations of unfair treatment. Critics contend that Tart’s non-ejection allowed a game-changing playmaker to remain on the field, skewing the result in Los Angeles’ favor.

According to league sources cited by The Athletic, Cheffers could face disciplinary measures, including suspension from officiating certain matchups. While no decision has been finalized, the investigation highlights the seriousness with which the NFL is addressing the claims.

Publicly, Chiefs coaches and players have avoided direct comment, with head coach Andy Reid declining to address the officiating. Fans, however, have been vocal — social media was flooded with demands for accountability, with some labeling the game “rigged.”

As the review continues, the NFL faces mounting pressure to reinforce trust in its officiating crews. If sanctions are handed down, Cheffers could be sidelined from marquee assignments — a clear signal that the league is committed to protecting its integrity.