Rumors of NFL’s pursuit of 18 regular-season games intensify

18 Regular-Season Games in the NFL: A Renewed Pursuit, Concept art for illustrative purpose – Monok

The National Football League (NFL) has long been exploring ways to increase revenue and enhance fan engagement, leading to ongoing speculation about expanding the regular season from 17 to 18 games.

On Sunday, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk initially reported the league’s efforts to introduce a new schedule.

There’s a lingering sense the NFL still wants to get to 18 regular-season games.

Mike Florio

Over the past few days, various reports have emerged suggesting that the NFL’s pursuit of an additional game is gaining momentum once more.

The idea was initially put forward by Andrew Berry, the General Manager of the Browns, who detailed that both Cleveland and several other teams are pushing for the trade deadline to be delayed by two weeks. This proposal is in response to the introduction of an extra week brought about by the addition of the 17th regular-season game.

Furthermore, it is a strategic move to prepare for the anticipated expansion of the regular-season games, ensuring that teams have adequate time to adjust their strategies and rosters accordingly.

Berry’s comments have fueled widespread belief within NFL circles that an 18th regular-season game is on the horizon, although it might not come until 2030.

The Road Ahead

The league’s motivation to expand the schedule includes generating more TV revenue and providing additional betting opportunities, both of which are significant financial drivers for NFL teams.

However, players’ health and safety remain a concern as an extended season could lead to increased injury risk and diminishing returns.

Will the NFL switch to an 18-game regular season? | NFL Live

Potential solutions being discussed include limiting the number of games each player can participate in or implementing strategic byes to maintain roster depth.

The NFL Players Association is expected to strongly oppose the proposal, but their objections may not deter the league from pushing for this expansion.

With record ratings during the 2022 season and the financial success of expanded playoffs, the league seems committed to continuing its growth trajectory. In light of these developments, fans can expect negotiations between the league and players’ union to heat up as both parties prepare for the next collective bargaining agreement in 2030.