Triplette resigns as president of Referees Association

Longtime official Jeff Triplette is stepping down from his post as the president of the NFL Referees Association.

The move was made official in an announcement from the union Friday, along with news that Tony Steratore will step in as his replacement.

"I have truly enjoyed being part of the leadership of this great organization," Triplette said in a statement obtained by Pro Football Talk. "I am proud that I was able to fight to protect the rights and interests of our members for the last 15 years. However, the conclusion of this season seemed like the right time for me to step aside and allow others to step up and lead the Union."

Triplette will enter his 19th season as a lead referee next fall. Steratore has been a back judge since 2000.