The NFL released an official statement shortly after the Los Angeles Rams defeated the Chicago Bears 20–17 in overtime on January 18, 2026, immediately drawing widespread attention across the league and sparking intense discussion among fans, analysts, and former players alike.

The brief yet carefully worded announcement addressed the performance of referee Shawn Hochuli, whose decisions during several high-pressure moments had already become a focal point of postgame debate throughout social media and sports broadcasting platforms.

According to the league, its standard review process was initiated promptly after the final whistle, as is customary for all postseason games, particularly those decided in overtime and involving closely contested, emotionally charged situations.

The NFL emphasized that this review was procedural rather than disciplinary, underscoring that every playoff game undergoes comprehensive evaluation to ensure consistency, transparency, and adherence to officiating standards across the league.

In its statement, the league made it clear that there was no evidence suggesting misconduct, bias, or external influence in Shawn Hochuli’s officiating during the Rams–Bears matchup, directly addressing speculation that had begun circulating online.

NFL officials stressed that Hochuli acted in good faith throughout the game, making real-time decisions based on positioning, available visual information, and the rules as written and interpreted at the professional level.

Video analysis of the game, conducted by the league’s officiating department, reportedly confirmed that while some calls were difficult and open to interpretation, they fell within the acceptable boundaries of professional judgment.

The league acknowledged that modern broadcast technology, with its slow-motion replays and multiple angles, often creates a perception gap between real-time officiating and postgame analysis by viewers and commentators.

Shawn Hochuli’s reputation as a disciplined and transparent official was highlighted internally, with league sources noting his consistent evaluations over multiple seasons and his history of accountability in high-stakes environments.

The NFL reiterated that no violations of ethical guidelines were identified, and there was absolutely no indication of bribery, improper communication, or intent to influence the outcome of the game in any direction.

This clarification was particularly significant given the emotional aftermath of the Bears’ narrow loss, as fans searched for explanations beyond on-field execution and situational outcomes.

Chicago supporters had pointed to a handful of contentious moments, questioning whether officiating decisions may have disrupted momentum or altered strategic possibilities late in regulation and overtime.

However, the league’s review concluded that the flow of the game remained fair and balanced, with both teams receiving opportunities to execute under the same officiating standards.

Statistical context also played a role in the NFL’s assessment, as penalty distribution and enforcement patterns did not indicate favoritism or irregular application of the rules.

The Rams were flagged fewer times overall, but the league attributed this to discipline and situational awareness rather than officiating leniency.

Officials reviewing the footage reportedly paid special attention to critical third-down situations, red-zone sequences, and overtime plays, where scrutiny is naturally highest.

In each instance, the league maintained that Hochuli’s calls aligned with league interpretations communicated to officiating crews throughout the season.

The NFL’s statement also defended the integrity of its officiating program, reminding the public that referees operate independently and are subject to rigorous oversight before, during, and after games.

Training, evaluation, and performance grading were cited as safeguards designed to minimize error and eliminate the possibility of external interference.

While acknowledging that no officiating performance is ever flawless, the league drew a firm line between human judgment errors and accusations of corruption or deliberate manipulation.

By addressing these concerns swiftly, the NFL appeared intent on protecting both the credibility of its officials and the legitimacy of its postseason outcomes.

Shawn Hochuli himself did not issue a separate public statement immediately, but league insiders indicated that he fully cooperated with the review process and welcomed transparency.

Those familiar with Hochuli’s career described him as meticulous and self-critical, qualities that have earned respect within officiating circles even amid public controversy.

Former referees commenting on the situation emphasized the speed and complexity of decision-making at the playoff level, where players operate at peak intensity.

They noted that many calls scrutinized after the game involved split-second judgments that appear far more straightforward only when viewed in slow motion.

The NFL’s response also seemed designed to calm escalating narratives that can quickly overshadow athletic performance and preparation.

League executives reportedly wanted to ensure that the focus returned to football execution, resilience, and the factors teams can control on the field.

For the Rams, the victory remained a testament to composure and experience, while for the Bears, the loss was framed internally as a lesson in closing games under pressure.

The officiating discussion, while unavoidable, was not seen by the league as the defining element of the contest.

Analysts largely agreed that both teams were afforded fair opportunities and that no single call conclusively determined the outcome.

The NFL concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to fairness, integrity, and continuous improvement within its officiating system.

It also encouraged fans and media to engage in informed discussion rather than speculation unsupported by evidence.

As the postseason continued, the league hoped this clarification would restore confidence and allow attention to shift toward upcoming championship matchups.

Ultimately, the message was clear: Shawn Hochuli officiated the game honestly, transparently, and within the framework of NFL rules.

In an era of constant scrutiny and instant reaction, the league positioned this statement as a reminder that accountability and trust remain central to professional football.

The Rams–Bears game would be remembered for its intensity and drama, not for allegations that the NFL firmly and publicly rejected.