PFWA Pool Reporter Jeff Legwold Interview with Referee Alex Kemp
New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Question: What were the dynamics of the second quarter ruling that changed the call from an incomplete pass to a backward pass recovered by New England?
Alex Kemp: I initially ruled it as a forward pass, which was incorrect. I proceeded to go through the administration of an intentional grounding foul. The down judge and the umpire came and talked to me and provided more information. The down judge explained that he extended his right arm to signal that he had a backward pass and at that point we determined that New England had picked up the then backward pass. We awarded possession to New England with no advance, because at that point we are not allowed to permit an advance.
Question: Was there an inadvertent whistle?
Kemp: The whistle stopped the play, but it was after the New England player picked up the ball.
