In a recent league meeting held in December, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell once again brought forward the topic of extending the regular season from its current 17 games to 18 games. This potential shift in schedule has been whispered about in league circles for some time now, but as it stands, it doesn't top Goodell’s immediate list of priorities.
Considerations for an Extended Season
The move to an 18-game regular season would necessitate a reconfiguration of the NFL's calendar. As it currently stands, the NFL transitioned from a 16-game season to a 17-game season back in 2021—a move that was well-received by many fans hungry for more action. However, expanding to an 18-game format would require even deeper logistical considerations, including potentially reducing the number of preseason games.
“If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing,” Goodell noted, alluding to a model that could see two preseason games accompany an extended 18-game campaign. This format has its advantages, balancing player readiness and safety concerns while increasing regular-season inventory.
A New Strategic Landscape
The NFL is conducting a thorough analysis before any definitive steps are taken to alter the regular season length. This comprehensive review will eventually be shared with the players union, whose approval would be essential for any such change. “We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point,” Goodell stated, indicating that the conversation is still very much in the exploratory phase.
One of the strategic advantages being considered is timing the Super Bowl to coincide with Presidents’ Day weekend. This adjustment would give fans a long weekend to celebrate one of the biggest annual sporting events globally. Goodell emphasized the potential appeal of such a move: “It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off.” This subtle shift could enhance the Super Bowl’s spectacle and accessibility.
Expanding Global Reach
Beyond the immediate logistical and scheduling implications, adding an 18th game has the potential to widen the NFL's international footprint. “That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally,” explained Goodell. More regular-season games means more opportunities to schedule fixtures beyond the United States, which is a significant part of the league's strategy to grow its global brand.
Historic Context and Future Impact
This latest discussion continues the NFL’s trend of evolving to meet modern demands and capitalize on growth opportunities. When the league expanded the playoffs from 12 to 14 teams, with only the No. 1 seed in each conference getting a bye, it tapped into a more competitive postseason environment. This shift in structure was another step in ensuring the league's dynamic responsiveness to both business objectives and audience demand.
It’s worth recalling how the NFL completely omitted the preseason in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. This drastic measure underscored the flexibility and adaptability of the league when faced with unparalleled challenges. Such precedent may well factor into negotiations and final decisions about a further expansion of the regular season.
In conclusion, while the idea of moving to an 18-game season is tantalizing—and offers numerous strategic and financial benefits—much remains to be considered. The dialogue between league officials and the players union will likely intensify as more analysis is presented. For now, though, the football world awaits further developments as the NFL continues to explore possibilities that could reshape the game for years to come.