League plans to hire up to 24 full-time game officials

NEW YORK » The NFL will hire up to 24 full-time game officials.

The league will begin hiring between 21 and 24 full-time officials from among the current roster of 124 officials for this season. The decision was announced Wednesday.

“We believe this is a great development for NFL officiating overall and ultimately the quality of our game,” said NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent. “We share a common goal, which is to make our game as great as it can possibly be, and look forward to working together on this new effort.”

Full-time officials will be hired at each of the seven officiating positions and may serve on each of the 17 officiating crews. They will work collaboratively with their assigned crews, the league officiating staff and the NFL’s football-related committees during the offseason.

“NFL officials are always looking to improve, and we believe that additional time, particularly in the offseason, will be positive,” said NFL Referees Association executive director Scott Green. “We’re looking forward to working together with the league on this effort.”

Al Riveron, the NFL’s new director of officiating, says the move is “about consistency.”

“It will be an improved way to get the message out to our crews, to coaching staffs and the players,” Riveron said. “The officials’ first responsibility will be to us.”

Unlike in most other pro sports, NFL officials have other jobs.

Falcons agree to $41.25 million deal with Freeman

ATLANTA » On the eve of their first preseason game, the Atlanta Falcons addressed their biggest issue coming into training camp.

Devonta Freeman has a new contract.

The defending NFC champions agreed to terms Wednesday on a five-year, $41.25 million extension with Freeman, making him the highest-paid running back in the league in terms of the overall package. It includes a $15 million signing bonus and $22 million in guaranteed money.

Buffalo’s LeSean McCoy had been the highest-paid back with a five-year, $40 million deal signed in 2015. Pittsburgh’s Le’veon Bell’s rejected an even bigger deal and will play for $12.12 million franchise tag this season.

During his three seasons with the Falcons, Freeman has racked up 2,383 rushing yards, including back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons in 2015 and 2016. His 3,175 total yards over the past two seasons ranks second in the NFL, behind teammate Julio Jones.

Bengals’ Lewis back after having knee checked

CINCINNATI » Coach Marvin Lewis was back with the Bengals on Wednesday after missing a practice to have a knee problem checked.

Lewis had scans on a swollen knee Tuesday at the hospital. He plans to coach the Bengals’ preseason opener at Paul Brown Stadium on Friday against Tampa Bay.

Doctors told him that walking would help reduce the swelling, so he won’t be limited on the sideline.