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NFL, CFL announce joint officiating development program

Chris Humphreys / USA TODAY Sports

The NFL and CFL jointly announced the formation of an officiating development program Friday.

Starting with the 2016 season in both leagues, select NFL officials will work as part of CFL officiating crews during preseason and regular-season games north of the border.

The CFL preseason starts in June.

"Any time our newer officials can get more reps on the field, during practices or games, that will make them better officials," said NFL senior VP of officiating Dean Blandino.

There are significant rule differences between the CFL and NFL, not the least of which is the number of downs. NFL officials working CFL games will be primarily field and side judges in order to minimize the impact of rule differences.

In addition, select CFL officials will join the NFL's Officiating Development Program.

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