Remembrances of the Zebra G.O.A.T. Jim Tunney

Several former NFL officials shared their thoughts about Jim Tunney, the Dean of Referees, who passed away last month.

Bill Carollo

Former NFL side judge and referee and current Big Ten supervisor of officials

Jim was a “renaissance man”. He was absolutely one of the best at everything he did. On the field he was respected and always in complete control of the game. He was nicknamed “Dean of the NFL officials” and for good reasons. At his time he was the best. Off the field he always would take the time to help mentor younger officials no matter how busy he was.

He was simply the best and a friend who will be missed by the entire officiating community.

Steve Wilson

Former NFL umpire

I was never able to share the field with Jim Tunney, but like most officials growing up in the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s we were influenced greatly by who he was and how he carried himself both on the field and off. I think we can all say that when number 32 came on the field, you know you were going to get an extremely professional game committed to excellence on every play.

I have the privilege of sharing some speaking engagements with him over the years and cannot tell you what an encouragement he was every time.

Rest in peace, Jim.

Don Carlsen

Former NFL side judge

I remembered so well watching Jim Tunney work NFL games for many years before I joined the officiating program in 1989. Since he retired after my second season, I never worked with Jim, but did introduce myself at my first clinic as we were both California guys. And as you may know, he was the “NFL poster child,” as the referee signals in the back of our rulebook were presented by the likeness of Jim.

I got to know Jim after my retirement as he was an observer like myself. Fortunately, due to his continued writing of the Tunney Side of Sports, we talked often when I would contact him to further discuss his latest article. He was such a great official and, more importantly, a great person. He will be missed!

Jerry Markbreit

4-time Super Bowl referee

Jim and I spoke many times each week for many years. He was a great friend. He always called me number 9. I worked my very first pre season game with Jim all the way in Seattle. He made me feel confident. It was the beginning of a great friendship. I will miss him.

Jim Nantz

CBS Sports broadcaster

Jim was such a wonderful gentleman. He had so many high integrity characteristics that it’s no wonder he was one of the greatest, if not the greatest NFL official of all time. We were friends since 1987 when I first met him at Pebble Beach during the week of the Crosby golf tournament. Jim was special. Kind to everyone. A great listener. Always concerned with his local community as well as his NFL family.

When I moved to the area full time in 2011 our friendship was further strengthened. It is my hope that Jim will one day be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His résumé is without peer. It’s unfortunate that the other major sports leagues have found a home in their halls of fame to recognize the great officials who have governed their games but pro football hasn’t. Until Art McNally was rightfully inducted a few years back, Canton never had paid tribute to great folks who watched over the sport. Jim deserves to be there, too.

This is a massive loss. And I’m so sorry to see my dear friend go. What a man! What a life!

Terry McAulay

4-time Super Bowl referee

Very wonderful tribute for the great Jim Tunney by @miketirico, @CollinsworthPFF, @tjmcaulay, and the @SNFonNBC crew. pic.twitter.com/Y7ZZEFYiar

— Fᴏᴏᴛʙᴀʟʟ Zᴇʙʀᴀs (@footballzebras) December 16, 2024