Gene Steratore is a well-known sports analyst and former referee. He built his name by working in both the NFL and NCAA basketball for over a decade. In 2018, he retired from officiating and joined CBS Sports as a rules analyst. His job is to explain close calls and complex rules during live games.
Fans recognize him for his calm voice, quick thinking, and deep knowledge of the rulebook. He played a major role in Super Bowl LII and many March Madness tournaments. Outside of sports, he runs a family-owned supply business in Pennsylvania. With an estimated net worth of $5 million, Steratore continues to be a trusted voice in sports broadcasting. This profile explores his journey, income, and influence.
Who Is Gene Steratore?
Gene Steratore is a former NFL referee and current rules analyst for CBS Sports. He became well known for his officiating work in both football and basketball, a rare dual role at the professional level. After retiring from the field in 2018, he joined CBS as a broadcast analyst.
His job is to explain complex rule decisions during NFL and NCAA basketball games. Steratore is respected for his clear communication, deep knowledge of the game, and calm demeanor. He brings firsthand experience from high-pressure moments to national television broadcasts. Fans appreciate his ability to make complicated rule calls easy to understand.
Where Was Gene Steratore Born and Raised?
Gene Steratore was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. He grew up in the same town, located in Fayette County. This region in southwestern Pennsylvania has a strong sports culture. Uniontown is where Steratore developed his early connection to sports and officiating. His family had deep ties to the officiating world.
His father, Gene Steratore Sr., was a respected football and basketball official. Gene learned the basics of the profession at a young age. His hometown experience helped build the foundation for his future in both sports and broadcasting.
What Is Gene Steratore’s Educational Background?
Steratore attended high school in Uniontown. After graduation, he enrolled at Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. There, he continued to develop his interest in sports and officiating. While specific details about his major are not publicly confirmed, Westminster is known for its strong programs in education and sports administration.
His college years helped him strengthen his understanding of rules and leadership, which later shaped his work as a referee and analyst. Westminster College also provided him with the environment to begin working in amateur officiating roles.
Does Gene Steratore Have a Sports Background?
Yes, Gene Steratore has a strong background in sports. He played football in college and was involved in athletics from a young age. More importantly, he built a long career in officiating. He started as a college-level basketball and football referee.
Over time, he worked his way up to professional leagues. Steratore was one of the few officials who handled both NFL and NCAA basketball games at the highest level. This dual role is rare in modern sports. His long experience in these two major sports made him a trusted voice in sports media after retirement.
Where Does Gene Steratore Currently Live?
Gene Steratore continues to live in Pennsylvania. He has strong ties to Uniontown, his hometown, and remains active in the community. He is also involved in his family’s business in the state.
Although he travels for CBS broadcasts and media appearances, his home base is still in southwestern Pennsylvania. His decision to stay close to his roots reflects his connection to family and community values. No official record confirms a different permanent residence.
Is Gene Steratore Married?
Public sources do not confirm whether Gene Steratore is currently married. He keeps details about his personal relationships private. Most of the information available about him focuses on his professional life and public appearances. Unless shared by reliable outlets or through official statements, his marital status remains unknown to the public.
Does Gene Steratore Have Children?
There is no confirmed public information about whether Gene Steratore has children. Like his relationship status, this aspect of his personal life is not widely shared. He has chosen to keep family matters away from media attention. Any claim about his children should be verified through a direct source or statement, which is not currently available.
Has Gene Steratore Ever Faced Public Controversy?
Gene Steratore has not been involved in any major public controversy. However, like most referees, some of his on-field decisions sparked debate among fans and analysts.
One notable example was the “index card” first-down measurement during an NFL game in 2017 between the Cowboys and Raiders. While the call was within the rules, it led to strong opinions from the public.
Despite such moments, Steratore is not known for misconduct or off-field issues. His career has been marked by professionalism and consistency.
Gene Steratore’s Background in Sports
Gene Steratore spent most of his career in the world of officiating. He did not play professional sports but became well known for his role as a referee in both the NFL and NCAA.
His background helped him earn respect from players, coaches, and fans. Steratore became one of the few officials trusted to work at the highest levels in two major sports.
Did Gene Steratore Play Any Professional Sports?
No, Gene Steratore did not play professional sports. His sports involvement focused on officiating rather than competing. He did play football at Westminster College in Pennsylvania.
However, he did not enter the NFL or any other pro league as a player. Instead, he chose a career in refereeing, where he found long-term success.
What Were His Accomplishments as a Referee or Official?
Steratore built an outstanding officiating career over 15 years in the NFL. He joined the league as a field judge in 2003. In 2006, he was promoted to referee.
He also worked as an NCAA Division I basketball official, often switching between football and basketball seasons. His calm presence and consistent rule enforcement earned him many important assignments.
Here is a summary of his key officiating stats:
| Category | Detail |
| NFL Career Duration | 2003–2018 |
| NFL Position | Field Judge, then Referee |
| Playoff Games Officiated | 14 |
| Super Bowls Officiated | 1 (Super Bowl LII) |
| NCAA Basketball Experience | Division I Level |
Steratore retired from officiating in 2018. His last game was Super Bowl LII, a major milestone in his career. That game featured the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles.
How Did Gene Steratore Transition Into Broadcasting?
After retiring in June 2018, Gene Steratore joined CBS Sports as a rules analyst. The transition was smooth and quick. CBS announced his hiring soon after he stepped away from officiating. His first season as an analyst began with the 2018 NFL season. He also started covering NCAA basketball during March Madness.
Steratore’s role at CBS involves explaining rule decisions during live broadcasts. He joins the commentary team when a rule needs clarification. His ability to speak clearly and think fast helps him deliver useful insights to viewers. He has become a regular part of CBS’s football and basketball coverage.
What Made Gene Steratore Unique Among Officials?
Gene Steratore was one of the very few referees to work in two major sports. He officiated in both the NFL and NCAA Division I basketball. This dual role is rare and shows his deep understanding of rules and game flow. Most referees specialize in one sport only. Steratore’s ability to manage both placed him in a small group of elite officials.
Another unique trait was his communication style. On the field, he stayed calm even during tense situations. He explained calls clearly, helping players and coaches understand his decisions. Off the field, his smooth transition to broadcasting showed his ability to adapt and continue serving the game. His final NFL game being the Super Bowl made his career finish especially notable.
Gene Steratore’s Professional Broadcasting Career
Gene Steratore became a full-time television analyst after retiring from officiating. He brought years of on-field experience into the broadcast booth. CBS Sports hired him to explain rules clearly during live games. Since then, he has become a key voice in helping fans understand controversial or complex decisions.
When Did Gene Steratore Join CBS?
Gene Steratore joined CBS Sports in June 2018. His hiring was announced just days after he retired from the NFL. He began working on-air during the 2018 NFL season. CBS brought him in to serve as a rules analyst for both football and college basketball. His quick move from the field to television helped CBS add expert insight to their sports coverage.
What Is Gene Steratore’s Role at CBS Sports?
Steratore works as a rules analyst. He explains game decisions made by referees. During live broadcasts, he joins the commentary team when a play needs review or when a penalty is being discussed. His job is to break down official rulings and explain what the rules say.
He uses simple language so all viewers can follow along. Steratore also appears on studio shows and in digital clips. He gives fans quick and clear answers about why a decision was made on the field or court.
Which Sports Does Gene Steratore Cover?
At CBS Sports, Steratore covers two major sports:
- NFL Football
- NCAA Basketball
He is part of the NFL broadcast crew each week during the football season. He also joins CBS coverage during March Madness, the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. His work includes both regular-season games and playoff broadcasts.
What Are Some Notable Moments From His On-Air Career?
One of Steratore’s most notable TV moments came during the NFL playoffs. He gave instant explanations of rule calls during tense matchups, including games with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Fans praised his clear voice and quick timing. Another key moment happened during March Madness, where he explained a last-second foul in a high-stakes game. His input helped millions understand a decision that could have changed the outcome.
CBS often brings him in during:
- Playoff games
- Controversial rule calls
- Overtime decisions
- Technical fouls or replay reviews
Steratore has built trust with viewers by staying neutral and explaining the rulebook in a simple way.
Has Gene Steratore Hosted Any Shows or Special Segments?
Steratore has not hosted a full program on his own. However, he frequently appears in special segments during CBS studio coverage. These include rule breakdowns, video reviews, and pre-recorded explanations of new rules.
His segments are short but informative. He also joins the broadcast team during halftime and post-game shows to discuss key officiating moments. CBS uses his insights to help fans better understand the flow of the game.
What Is Gene Steratore Known for in the Broadcasting World?
Gene Steratore is known for his calm and clear delivery. He explains rules without confusion. His voice is steady, and his comments are easy to follow. This style makes him one of the most trusted rules analysts on television.
He also stands out for his dual-sport experience, which few broadcasters can match. Most of all, fans appreciate that he speaks from experience. He has been on the field, made tough calls, and now helps people understand those decisions from the broadcast booth.
Key Achievements and Industry Recognition
Gene Steratore is widely respected in both sports officiating and broadcasting. His long officiating career and current media role have earned him a strong reputation.
He is known for clear judgment, consistent performance, and the ability to explain complex rules in simple terms. While he may not have a long list of public awards, his career milestones and industry respect highlight his achievements.
Has Gene Steratore Received Awards or Honors?
There are no public records of Gene Steratore receiving major sports broadcasting awards. However, his selection to referee Super Bowl LII in 2018 was itself a top honor. Only a few officials are chosen to lead the NFL’s biggest game. That assignment recognized his skill, professionalism, and long-standing service.
Other informal honors include:
- Super Bowl LII referee selection
- 14 NFL playoff games officiated
- CBS Sports analyst since 2018
- Officiated NCAA March Madness games
These milestones reflect industry trust rather than formal trophies. His role at CBS and high-profile game assignments serve as recognition of his abilities.
What Are Gene Steratore’s Most Iconic Moments?
Steratore’s most iconic moment came in 2017 during an NFL game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Oakland Raiders. He used an index card to measure for a first down. The visual of the card sparked debate but followed the league’s rule guidelines. It became one of the most talked-about officiating moments in recent NFL history.
Other notable career highlights include:
- Refereeing Super Bowl LII
- Explaining last-second NCAA basketball fouls during March Madness
- Breaking down controversial NFL playoff calls on live TV
- Making clear and fast on-air rule decisions at CBS
These moments show his influence both on the field and on screen. They helped shape how viewers and players understand the rules of the game.
How Is Gene Steratore Viewed by Peers and Fans?
Gene Steratore is viewed as fair, calm, and knowledgeable. Fellow referees and analysts respect his work ethic and leadership. Broadcasters rely on him to explain game-changing moments. He has earned trust by staying clear, accurate, and honest in every role.
Fans see him as a reliable voice during confusing plays. His ability to simplify rules without bias makes him a favorite among viewers. He is often praised for staying professional during tense moments.
Reputation highlights:
- Trusted by CBS producers and lead announcers
- Respected by current and former officials
- Valued by NFL and NCAA fans for neutral rule explanations
His voice has become a regular part of major broadcasts. People expect his input during critical rule discussions. That continued demand reflects his standing in the sports community.
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Media Presence and Online Footprint
Gene Steratore has a visible but modest online presence. While he does not produce large amounts of personal content, he appears regularly across CBS platforms and media interviews. His online activity focuses mostly on sports commentary, officiating analysis, and professional insights tied to his CBS role.
Is Gene Steratore Active on Social Media?
Gene Steratore is active on social media, primarily on Twitter (X). His official account is used to share updates, rule interpretations, and professional highlights. He also reposts CBS Sports content and occasionally interacts with fans. He does not post personal content. He is not highly active on platforms like Instagram or Facebook.
Social Media Presence:
| Platform | Status | Notes |
| Twitter (X) | Active | Posts CBS updates and officiating content |
| Not active | No verified account available | |
| Not active | No official public profile found |
Has Gene Steratore Been a Guest on Podcasts or Shows?
Yes, Gene Steratore has appeared on several sports-related podcasts and TV shows. He has been a guest on “My Favorite Mistake”, where he discussed lessons learned from officiating. He has also joined CBS studio programs to share his insights. These appearances are usually focused on his officiating experience, leadership under pressure, and rule interpretation.
Confirmed appearances:
- My Favorite Mistake podcast
- CBS pregame and halftime studio shows
- Guest commentary on officiating trends during NCAA tournaments
Does Gene Steratore Create Content Online?
Gene Steratore does not maintain a personal blog, YouTube channel, or regular online show. His digital content comes mostly through CBS Sports. These include short video clips during broadcasts and featured segments explaining rules. His online presence is limited to network-driven content. There is no personal website or ongoing video series under his own name.
Has He Written Articles or Books?
As of now, Gene Steratore has not published any books. There are no official records of him writing opinion columns or articles for sports media outlets. Most of his commentary is shared through interviews and broadcasts. If he has written material in the past, it has not been publicly promoted or widely distributed. There are no confirmed book deals or writing projects under his name.
Is Gene Steratore Involved in Public Speaking or Events?
Yes, Gene Steratore has participated in speaking events, especially related to sports officiating and leadership. He often speaks at youth sports programs, referee clinics, and community forums. His topics include fair play, decision-making, and handling pressure. These appearances are mostly regional, often in Pennsylvania, where he remains active in the local community.
Speaking areas include:
- Officiating education
- Leadership in sports
- Game-day decision-making
- Sportsmanship talks for student-athletes
Is He Involved in Charity or Community Outreach?
Gene Steratore supports community efforts, especially around his hometown of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. He has been involved with local fundraising events and youth sports programs. His family’s long-standing presence in the area allows him to stay connected with local causes. While not tied to a single national charity, his involvement shows a strong commitment to giving back.
Community highlights:
- Fundraising events in southwestern Pennsylvania
- Participation in youth sports mentorship
- Support for local officiating training programs
Steratore keeps a low profile but continues to make a positive impact off-screen.
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Financial Overview: Net Worth, Salary, and Business Ventures
Gene Steratore’s financial status reflects his long career in officiating and his current work in broadcasting. He has earned income from multiple sources, including sports, television, and private business. His financial profile places him among the most successful former referees in the media industry.
What Is Gene Steratore’s Estimated Net Worth?
As of recent reports, Gene Steratore’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This includes income from his years as an NFL and NCAA official, his CBS Sports analyst role, and his share in a family-owned business. His wealth has grown steadily since his transition from officiating to broadcasting in 2018.
Estimated Net Worth by Year:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
| 2021 | $4.0 million |
| 2022 | $4.5 million |
| 2023 | $5.0 million |
These figures are based on publicly available sources and reflect his combined earnings across different roles.
What Is Gene Steratore’s CBS Salary?
Gene Steratore’s exact salary at CBS is not publicly confirmed. However, multiple reports estimate that he earns approximately $95,000 per year as a rules analyst. While this figure is lower than some industry estimates for top-tier analysts, it reflects his specialized role in rules interpretation. His work includes regular-season NFL games, NCAA basketball, playoff coverage, and March Madness broadcasts.
Salary Estimate:
| Role | Estimated Annual Salary |
| CBS Rules Analyst | ~$95,000 |
| Super Bowl/NCAA Events | Not publicly disclosed |
Does Gene Steratore Have a CBS Contract?
Yes, Gene Steratore works under a formal agreement with CBS Sports. He first signed with the network in June 2018, shortly after retiring from officiating. His contract was set to cover both NFL and NCAA basketball broadcasts. While CBS has not released the exact contract length or terms, his continued presence each season indicates that his contract has been extended at least once. He remains part of CBS’s regular sports coverage team.
Confirmed Contract Timeline:
| Event | Date |
| Joined CBS Sports | June 2018 |
| First NFL Broadcast | Fall 2018 |
| Contract Renewal | Ongoing |
Does Gene Steratore Have Endorsements or Brand Deals?
There is no confirmed public record of Gene Steratore holding major brand endorsements. He may have appeared in promotional content related to CBS Sports or during sponsor-supported broadcasts. However, he is not currently linked to any long-term advertising deals or product endorsements. Most of his income appears to come from broadcasting and business ownership.
Does He Own Any Businesses Outside Broadcasting?
Yes, Gene Steratore co-owns Steratore Sanitary Supply, a family-run cleaning and sanitary supply company based in Pennsylvania. The business has been active for many years and provides commercial cleaning products and services. His role in the company adds a second stream of income outside his broadcasting career. This venture is managed alongside other family members and remains operational.
Business Ownership Summary:
| Business Name | Industry | Location | Status |
| Steratore Sanitary Supply | Cleaning Supplies | Pennsylvania | Active |
Steratore’s involvement in business shows his commitment to long-term financial stability beyond sports media.
Personal Interests, Beliefs, and Influence
Gene Steratore is more than a sports official or broadcaster. He has strong personal values, a deep connection to his community, and a commitment to educating others. His influence goes beyond the field and screen. Through public outreach and quiet leadership, he shares life lessons from his career with those around him.
What Are Gene Steratore’s Hobbies and Passions?
Gene Steratore enjoys staying involved in sports and community work. He is passionate about mentoring young officials and athletes. His love for fair play and structured competition reflects his lifelong role in officiating.
He also supports his family’s business in Pennsylvania, which shows his interest in leadership and teamwork outside of sports. While he does not publicly share personal hobbies like travel or entertainment, his public appearances often tie back to sports education and community involvement.
Key personal interests:
- Mentoring youth and new officials
- Supporting family business operations
- Teaching leadership through sports
- Speaking at sports and educational events
How Does Gene Steratore Use His Platform for Good?
Steratore uses his role at CBS and his public voice to promote fairness, professionalism, and education in sports. He appears at community sports clinics, speaks at leadership events, and supports local initiatives in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. He encourages respect for referees and the value of rule-based play.
His clear public image helps promote trust in officiating, both on and off the screen. Although he does not lead a large foundation or nonprofit, his actions support the growth of ethical sports behavior.
Ways he supports positive impact:
| Activity | Purpose |
| Youth sports mentoring | Teach respect and fairness |
| Speaking at referee clinics | Improve officiating quality |
| Community sports events | Promote teamwork and discipline |
| Local business leadership | Support economic and family values |
Has Gene Steratore Commented on Social or Sports Issues?
Gene Steratore does not often comment on broad social issues. He focuses mostly on sports-specific topics. He has spoken about the pressure referees face, the importance of rule clarity, and the growing need for public trust in officiating. During broadcasts, he avoids personal opinions and stays neutral. His public comments stay centered on fairness, professionalism, and performance in sports.
Known topics he has addressed:
- Respect for officials and their roles
- Consistency in rule enforcement
- Education for new referees
- Mental focus in high-pressure decisions
There is no public record of him taking positions on political or social matters beyond the world of sports. His approach stays focused on the game and the people who work to keep it fair.
Looking Ahead: Gene Steratore’s Future
Gene Steratore remains active in broadcasting and community work. His current role at CBS is steady, but his experience gives him the option to expand into new areas. As sports media continues to grow, his voice is likely to stay important in coverage of rules and officiating.
What Are Gene Steratore’s Future Career Goals?
Gene Steratore has not publicly outlined specific long-term goals. However, his consistent presence on CBS broadcasts suggests he plans to continue as a rules analyst. He may take on more advanced media roles or develop training content for officials. His experience in both football and basketball gives him a wide range of options in sports commentary, officiating education, or consulting.
Possible future directions:
- Continued role as CBS rules analyst
- Expanded presence in March Madness broadcasts
- Speaking roles in officiating workshops or leadership panels
- Development of officiating training material for younger referees
He has not shared interest in switching networks or creating his own media brand. His current path appears stable and ongoing.
Are There Any Upcoming Projects or Announcements?
As of now, there are no official announcements about new projects from Gene Steratore. He has not published a book, launched a podcast, or created personal video content. CBS has not revealed any special assignments beyond his regular schedule. Any future updates would likely come through official CBS press releases or media interviews.
Project status summary:
| Area | Status |
| New TV projects | Not announced |
| Personal podcast or show | Not available |
| Book or published memoir | Not confirmed |
| Expanded CBS role | Possible but unconfirmed |
Steratore continues to appear on CBS during NFL and NCAA broadcasts. If new opportunities arise, they will likely relate to officiating or broadcast expansion. Until then, his focus remains on providing clear and trusted analysis for viewers.
FAQs About Gene Steratore
This section answers common questions about Gene Steratore’s career, public recognition, and role in sports broadcasting. Each answer is based on confirmed information and reflects his unique journey from officiating to media.
How did Gene Steratore start his officiating career?
Gene Steratore began officiating in the early 1990s. He started with college-level games and worked his way up through smaller football and basketball leagues.
His early background included NCAA basketball and lower-division football. In 2003, the NFL hired him as a field judge. He became a referee in 2006. His officiating career lasted 15 years and included both regular-season and playoff games.
What is Gene Steratore known for in football and basketball?
In football, Steratore is known for his calm presence and rule enforcement during high-stakes NFL games. He officiated 14 playoff games and led the crew in Super Bowl LII.
In basketball, he served as an NCAA Division I official. He worked major college games, including March Madness tournaments. Few officials have balanced careers in both sports at the top level. This made Steratore one of the most respected and recognizable referees in modern sports.
What is the story behind the “index card” ruling?
The “index card” ruling happened during a 2017 NFL game between the Dallas Cowboys and Oakland Raiders. A measurement was needed to check if the Cowboys had gained a first down. Steratore used a folded index card to check the space between the ball and the chain marker.
The call gave the Cowboys a first down. This act caused public debate but followed the NFL’s rules at the time. It became one of the most talked-about moments in recent officiating history.
Where can you watch Gene Steratore’s commentary?
You can watch Gene Steratore’s commentary on CBS Sports. He appears during NFL games and NCAA basketball broadcasts. His analysis is featured during live games, halftime reports, and post-game segments.
He is also included in March Madness coverage each spring. CBS may also share his rule explanations through digital platforms like YouTube, Twitter, or the CBS Sports website.
Broadcast platforms:
- CBS Sports (NFL and NCAA games)
- CBS Studio and Halftime Shows
- CBS March Madness Coverage
- CBS Sports Digital Clips and Social Media
Is Gene Steratore one of the best referees in NFL history?
Gene Steratore is widely respected for his officiating career. While there is no official ranking of NFL referees, his selection to referee Super Bowl LII places him among the league’s most trusted officials. His reputation for fairness, clear communication, and accuracy helped define his career. Many fans and analysts view him as one of the best referees of his era based on performance, professionalism, and public trust.
Marcus Avery is a sports writer based in Atlanta. He creates detailed profiles of athletes, coaches, and media professionals. His work focuses on facts, timelines, and career insights across all major sports. Marcus writes full-time and updates this blog weekly.