Exploring the Possibility of an 18-Game NFL Regular Season
The National Football League, ever ambitious in its pursuit to expand its global reach and enhance its product, is contemplating a significant shift in the structure of its regular season. During a December league meeting, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell broached the subject of extending the regular season from 17 games to 18. While this concept has piqued interest among league executives and fans alike, it is not yet a top priority on Goodell's current agenda.
The implications of such a change are far-reaching, with the Commissioner acknowledging the potential need to trim the preseason to make room for an expanded schedule. "If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing," Goodell remarked, suggesting a balance between maintaining player safety and addressing the league's operational needs. The discussion around the 18-game regular season also includes strategic considerations like ending the Super Bowl on Presidents’ Day weekend, a move seen as offering a strategic advantage by dovetailing the NFL's marquee event with a national holiday.
However, the league is proceeding with caution. A comprehensive analysis is underway, aimed at evaluating the benefits and challenges of an extended season. "We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point," Goodell conveyed through NFL Media, highlighting the league's methodical approach before making any definitive changes.
Moreover, this potential shift in schedule is part of a broader conversation involving key stakeholders. The findings from the NFL's analysis will be shared with the players union, ensuring that any decisions are made with consideration of player welfare and collective bargaining agreements. The relationship between the league and its players is pivotal, especially when discussions involve altering the fundamental structure of the season.
Goodell also sees opportunities beyond the domestic market with this proposal. "That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally," he explained, indicating the NFL's intention to leverage additional games to enhance its international footprint. With the league already hosting games in London and Mexico City, expanding the regular season could offer more flexibility and opportunity to engage with fans across the world.
The NFL's regular season structure has evolved over the years, reflecting the league's adaptability and growth. In 2021, the NFL shifted from a 16-game regular season to the current 17-game format. This change was accompanied by playoff expansion in 2020, which saw the inclusion of two additional teams, taking the total from 12 to 14. This move meant only the No. 1 seed in each conference would receive a bye, increasing the competitive stakes of the regular season.
The 2020 season was unique for other reasons as well, notably the decision to eliminate the preseason entirely due to COVID-19 concerns. This past experience underscores the league's willingness to adjust traditional schedules in response to external factors.
The idea of concluding the football season on Presidents’ Day weekend is enticing. "It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off," Goodell noted. This concept, tying a sports event to a holiday weekend, could enhance viewership and provide an opportunity for fans to celebrate without the pressure of an immediate return to work.
While the prospect of an 18-game regular season is still in its early stages, the conversation reflects the NFL’s ever-evolving landscape. As the league delves deeper into its analysis, stakeholders and fans alike will be eagerly awaiting the results and the potential impact on the future of professional football in America and beyond.