The NFL is continuously exploring avenues for expansion. League commissioner Roger Goodell has previously expressed interest in international growth, particularly with the possibility of a franchise in Europe. Recently, however, he has suggested the idea of an 18-game schedule, which would increase the current 17-game model that has been in effect since 2021. This proposal has raised concerns due to the physically demanding nature of football, leading many to worry that adding more games could adversely affect player health.
Goodell believes the league has implemented sufficient health and safety measures to ensure that an increase in games would still be safe for players. “I think we’ve made enough changes to the game — both the offseason and during the season — from a health and safety standpoint,” he stated during an appearance on They Call it Late Night with Jason Kelce.
In a Wednesday press conference, NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell addressed Goodell’s comments, emphasizing that the issue of an additional game has not been raised formally. “Their side hasn’t raised it, we certainly haven’t raised it… Any commentary outside of a formal negotiation is just commentary,” Howell noted, adding that players have expressed no desire to play an 18th game, stating, “No one wants to play an 18th game. No one. 17 games is too long for many of the guys.”
As discussions unfold, particularly if formal negotiations with the Player’s Association commence, Howell has begun considering what concessions would be necessary from the league. “Then we get to the economics,” he explained. “If I’m asking my workforce to work more, it’s not as simple as I’m gonna fall back on the revenue split that already exists… There are so many dimensions that hang off the length of the season.”
While the prospect of an extra game in the regular season may seem appealing, it would ultimately be unwise if players are not fit to perform at their optimal levels.
