Washington, DC – The NFL and NFL Players Association are considering extending the regular season to 18 games in light of a $14.1 billion liability looming over the league. This potential change is part of an aggressive effort to boost revenue and address various economic, health, and safety concerns that come with an expanded schedule.
In a recent meeting with the Washington Post, NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell disclosed that discussions about an 18-game season have taken place at a high level. While the idea is being considered, Howell emphasized the need to thoroughly evaluate the impact of additional games on player health, safety, and various aspects of the game such as playing surface, offseason schedule, roster size, and practice squad size.
The NFL’s desire to increase the number of regular-season games has been a topic of debate for years. The league previously settled for a 17-game season due to concerns about player well-being and the increased risk of injuries associated with a longer season. However, with the current Collective Bargaining Agreement set to expire in 2030, both sides have the opportunity to negotiate a new agreement on this and other issues at any time.
While the potential expansion to 18 games may present challenges and require careful consideration of various factors, the primary motivation behind the move is financial. By adding more games to the regular season, the league hopes to offset potential revenue losses associated with other issues, such as the pending $14.1 billion liability for the Sunday Ticket package. This move could also lead to further discussions about future increases in the number of games played each season.
Ultimately, the decision to extend the regular season to 18 games, and potentially beyond, will depend on reaching an agreement that addresses the concerns of both the NFL and the NFLPA. As discussions continue, the focus remains on striking a balance between financial considerations and ensuring the health and safety of the players, while also exploring ways to enhance the overall fan experience.