At a recent league meeting, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell brought forward the idea of extending the regular season from 17 to 18 games. Although this proposal isn't currently high on Goodell's agenda, it's clear that the league is contemplating the potential benefits and challenges such an extension might entail. The NFL's considerations reflect an evolving vision of the sport's future, focusing on enhancing both the competitive landscape and fan experience.
A Strategic Shift
The NFL transitioned from a 16-game to a 17-game regular season back in 2021, a move that was met with varied reactions from players and fans alike. Despite these mixed reviews, the league is now considering yet another shift. This potential extension would likely necessitate changes to the NFL calendar, with talks of possibly reducing the preseason to accommodate an 18-game schedule. This balance aims to maintain player safety while enhancing the season’s competitiveness.
One intriguing aspect of this proposal is its timing, with discussions revolving around ending the Super Bowl on Presidents’ Day weekend. This strategic move could offer a significant advantage, giving Super Bowl festivities even greater prominence and possibly translating to increased viewer engagement.
Exploring Global Opportunities
In light of these considerations, Goodell also hinted at another potential advantage of the 18-game schedule: increased opportunities to engage with international audiences. As he explained, “That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally.” The global aspect of the NFL has been steadily growing, with games regularly being held outside the United States. An extended regular season might further bolster the league's international footprint, presenting more chances to harness a global fanbase.
Analyses and Discussions
While the notion of an 18-game season is enticing, Goodell emphasized that the league is still in the preliminary stages of its analysis. “We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point,” he remarked through NFL Media. This statement underscores the thoughtful approach the NFL is adopting, ensuring all aspects and ramifications of such an extension are thoroughly examined before any firm decisions are made.
Part of this analysis includes impending discussions with the players union, a critical stakeholder in any potential amendment to the season structure. Transparent and collaborative dialogue between the NFL and its players will be essential in determining the best path forward. Such discussions bear great significance, particularly in considerations of player health and workload, which are central concerns associated with extending the regular season.
Prior Changes and Considerations
The NFL's history of adjusting its calendar dates back to changes made during the pandemic-stricken 2020 season, when the preseason was entirely omitted due to COVID-19 concerns. More recently, the league expanded its playoff teams from 12 to 14, allowing only the No. 1 seed in each conference to receive a playoff bye. These decisions have continuously molded the league, demonstrating a willingness to evolve and adapt amid new challenges and opportunities.
These elements together frame the current discussion about an 18-game season. The league aims not only to enhance the competitive phase of the sport but also to ensure it fits within a broader strategic and global context. As discussions progress, it remains to be seen how Goodell and the NFL leadership will navigate the complex landscape of expanding the season.
Ultimately, Goodell's remarks and the league's ongoing analysis signal a cautious yet forward-thinking approach. The NFL seeks to align its sporting future with new opportunities and increased engagement while considering the impact on players and the league's structure. Whether this leads to an 18-game regular season remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the NFL’s strategic reflections continue to shape the future of football, offering the potential for even greater dynamism and reach. As Goodell aptly put it, “If we got to 18 and 2, that’s not an unreasonable thing.”