The National Football League has named its officiating crew for the upcoming Super Bowl LIX, selecting veteran referee Ron Torbert to lead the team. Torbert, who has been an NFL official since 2010, will be heading to his second Super Bowl after previously serving as the referee for Super Bowl LVI between the Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals.
Joining Torbert will be an experienced crew of officials:
- Umpire: Mike Morton
- Down Judge: Max Causey
- Line Judge: Mark Stewart
- Field Judge: Mearl Robinson
- Side Judge: Boris Cheek
- Back Judge: Jonah Monroe
- Replay Official: Kevin Brown
Extensive Super Bowl Experience
This officiating crew brings a wealth of Super Bowl experience to the big game. Side judge Boris Cheek, in particular, stands out as he will be working his fourth Super Bowl. Cheek most recently was part of Torbert’s crew at Super Bowl LVI.
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Cheek made history earlier this season when he officiated his 461st game, surpassing Walt Coleman for the most games officiated in NFL history. His longevity and experience will undoubtedly be an asset in the high-pressure environment of the Super Bowl.
From Super Bowl Champion to Super Bowl Official
One fascinating story from this crew is that of umpire Mike Morton. Before becoming an NFL official in 2022, Morton had a very different role at the Super Bowl – as a player. Morton was a linebacker for the St. Louis Rams team that won Super Bowl XXXIV over the Tennessee Titans after the 1999 season.
Mike’s journey from Super Bowl champion to Super Bowl official is truly remarkable. It demonstrates his deep commitment to the game of football and highlights the diverse backgrounds and experiences that our officials bring to their roles.
– Troy Vincent, NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations
Morton’s path from player to official is an uncommon one. In his full-time job, he’s actually a dentist based in North Carolina. Balancing his dental practice with his responsibilities as an NFL official is undoubtedly challenging, but Morton has proven his ability to excel in both roles.
Confidence in the Crew
The selection of Torbert and his crew for Super Bowl LIX reflects the NFL’s confidence in their abilities. Torbert has been a steady presence in the league’s officiating ranks for over a decade, earning respect for his calm demeanor and sound judgment on the field.
His experience officiating last week’s thrilling NFC Divisional Round upset by the Washington Commanders over the Detroit Lions demonstrated his ability to manage a high-stakes, intense game. That will serve him well under the bright lights of the Super Bowl.
Ron has consistently demonstrated the poise, judgement, and command of the rules necessary to succeed on the NFL’s biggest stage. We have the utmost faith in Ron and his crew to officiate a fair, clean game and allow the players and coaches to decide the outcome on the field.
– Al Riveron, NFL Senior Vice President of Officiating
With Torbert at the helm, the NFL is entrusting Super Bowl LIX to a proven leader and an officiating crew rich with experience. From Morton’s incredible player-to-official journey, to Cheek’s record-setting career, this group brings fascinating storylines and undeniable credentials to the Super Bowl assignment.
As the football world turns its eyes to New Orleans on February 9th, fans can take comfort knowing that the game is in the capable hands of Ron Torbert and his seasoned crew of officials. Their collective wisdom and cool under pressure should allow the players’ talents and preparation to determine the outcome of what promises to be a spectacular Super Bowl LIX.
