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Discussions surrounding the potential expansion of the NFL regular season to 18 games have not yet commenced, with formal negotiations between the league and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) expected to remain on hold for the foreseeable future. Recent reports indicate that any meaningful conversations on this topic may not take place until 2026 at the earliest.
The idea of extending the regular season from 17 to 18 games has been a point of contention among league owners for some time, with many seeking to capitalize on the additional revenue an extra game could bring. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has publicly expressed support for this expansion, framing it as a logical progression following the previous adjustments to the schedule.
In early discussions, Goodell mentioned the possibility of a total of 20 games when combining preseason and regular season play. “We went to 16 and four, and now 17 and three. So 18 and two is a logical step,” he stated, emphasizing the potential benefits of such a change.
However, the NFLPA has voiced significant resistance to the proposal. Executive Director Lloyd Howell has indicated that the majority of players are not in favor of playing an additional game, citing concerns over player safety and workload. “Right now, when I have talked to the players over the last two seasons, no one wants to play an 18th game,” Howell remarked, highlighting the current sentiment among athletes regarding the existing 17-game schedule.
Player safety remains a paramount concern in these discussions. Howell has challenged the league’s assertions that advancements in health and safety protocols justify the extension of the season. As the NFLPA prepares to engage with players in team meetings to gauge their priorities, it remains clear that any potential schedule expansion will require collaboration and agreement between both the league and the union.
While some league owners are hopeful for the implementation of an 18-game schedule within the next few years, there has been no formal push from the NFL to initiate negotiations with the NFLPA. The timeline for any changes to the schedule may hinge on future bargaining cycles and the interests of both parties.
The NFL last altered its regular season format in 2021, moving from a 16-game to a 17-game schedule. This marked the first significant change since the league transitioned from 14 to 16 games in 1978, highlighting the complexities and challenges involved in modifying such a foundational aspect of the sport. As the conversation continues, fans and players alike will be watching closely to see how the league navigates this pivotal issue in the years to come.