The NFL’s global expansion is nothing new, but the league is now poised to push the boundaries even further. Commissioner Roger Goodell has recently indicated that the league could eventually play as many as 16 games overseas in a single season, having already held five international games in 2024 and planning to ramp up to eight in 2025. As the NFL grows internationally, introducing a separate media rights package for these games seems like a logical next step. The league is reportedly targeting a multibillion-dollar media rights deal for its international games, but the global expansion doesn’t stop there. Goodell has even left the door open to host a Super Bowl in London.
Now, there’s even more on the horizon as the NFL eyes regular season games in the Middle East. NFL EVP Peter O’Reilly announced new global marketing rights on Monday in the United Arab Emirates, where the San Francisco 49ers, Washington Commanders, and Los Angeles Rams are now partners. According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, there’s significant interest in the NFL in the UAE, with potential for a future game in Abu Dhabi—though it remains an “if” for now.
NFL EVP Peter O’Reilly announced new NFL global marketing rights for Greece (LA Chargers) and United Arab Emirates (49ers, Commanders, Rams).
O’Reilly said there’s high interest in NFL in UAE. Potential to play a game there in future (possibly Abu Dhabi). It’s an ‘if’ right now. pic.twitter.com/nKQaTucOms
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) March 31, 2025
Why is the NFL venturing into these new territories? The reason is straightforward—money and brand recognition. Pat McAfee shared his perspective on this during The Pat McAfee Show on Monday, stating, “I would like to be on the side of I think it’s good to help countries and everything evolve … what the WWE has done alongside Saudi Arabia and the Crown Prince … I think that’s good for their society; good for their world.” He acknowledges the controversies involved but sees the potential for progress through sports.
McAfee emphasizes the unifying power of sports, saying, “I enjoy the fact that golf was being utilized … to get Saudi Arabian folks interested in more American sports. I like the thought of sport bringing the world together because, ultimately, that’s what I think sports are about. If the NFL is able to take their game over there and receive a huge payment, I believe it’s good for the world—and that number will likely continue to increase.”
The NFL is exploring the possibility of a regular season game in the United Arab Emirates #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/Pz7vnuh0s4
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 31, 2025
The NFL’s international ambitions are expanding rapidly, driven by financial opportunities. The league is set on enhancing its global footprint—whether through regular-season games in the Middle East, a Super Bowl in London, or a new media rights deal. The pressing question remains: how far and how fast will the NFL go? While McAfee frames the expansion as a win for global unity, he understands the fundamental truth: if the NFL profits, then everyone benefits.
