After Official NFL Investigation, Carl Cheffers’ Officiating Crew Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Cardinals Head Coach Jonathan Gannon

🏟️ The NFL world is buzzing with controversy after Carl Cheffers’ officiating crew officially filed a defamation lawsuit against Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon. The legal action follows Gannon’s postgame remarks accusing the officials of biased calls during Sunday’s 31 to 17 win by the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium.

📩 According to insiders, Gannon submitted a formal complaint to the league within hours of the loss, alleging that Cheffers' crew unfairly influenced the outcome of the game. The complaint cited a series of questionable penalties including a roughing the passer call and a pass interference that extended two key drives for the 49ers. Gannon reportedly told local media, “The refs took the game out of our hands.”

📢 But just one day later, the NFL responded with an official statement clearing the Cheffers crew of any wrongdoing. After a full review, the league confirmed that all pivotal calls were correct and consistent with league rules and replay guidelines.

💥 Following that vindication, Carl Cheffers and his crew filed a defamation suit against Gannon. The lawsuit claims Gannon’s comments publicly damaged their credibility and triggered a wave of harassment from Cardinals fans online. The officiating crew, which includes down judge Patrick Holt, field judge Joe Blubaugh, and back judge Terrence Miles, stated in legal filings that Gannon's remarks were "reckless, harmful, and factually incorrect."

😤 One official reportedly told league reporters off the record,
🗣️ “We take pride in getting it right. When coaches lose and point fingers, it crosses a line.”

📌 The NFL Referees Association also weighed in, issuing a statement backing the Cheffers crew and condemning what they called “unfounded personal attacks” against game officials.

Reactions from fans around the league came quickly:

• “Gannon is deflecting. The 49ers were the better team from start to finish.”

📰 With legal proceedings now unfolding and potential fines under consideration, this incident is quickly becoming one of the most dramatic officiating storylines of the 2025 season.

For the 49ers, the win keeps their momentum strong in the NFC West. For the Cardinals, the focus has shifted from game film to courtroom drama. And for Carl Cheffers and his crew, it’s a battle not just to protect their name, but to defend the integrity of the game itself.