Prospects for an 18-Game NFL Season
The NFL stands on the brink of yet another potential transformation in its storied history. Roger Goodell, the league's Commissioner, recently broached the possibility of extending the regular season from its current 17 games to 18. Although this is not a priority on his agenda, the implications of such a change are capturing the attention of fans and stakeholders alike.
When Goodell floated the idea during a league meeting in December, he noted, "If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing." This statement hints at a season structure involving 18 games and presumably two bye weeks, a setup that could provide teams with both additional playing opportunities and much-needed rest. This potential extension of the season, however, raises several logistical considerations, particularly the adjustment of the existing preseason format. Goodell acknowledged the possibility of shortening the preseason to accommodate the expanded schedule, a nod to the gradual evolution of the league's calendar.
The NFL is no stranger to strategic alterations. As recently as 2021, the league expanded from a 16-game to a 17-game regular season. This move followed the 2020 decision to eliminate the preseason due to COVID-19 concerns, reflecting the organization’s ability to pivot when necessary. Additionally, the NFL expanded its playoff format from 12 to 14 teams, allowing only the top-seeded team in each conference to receive a bye in the postseason. These modifications underline the NFL's commitment to keeping the competition structure not only rigorous but also engaging for its expansive fan base.
Strategic Implications
A longer season could yield several strategic benefits. As Goodell pointed out, expanding to "18 and 2" could "open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally." The NFL has shown increasing interest in international markets, and additional games could facilitate more international fixtures, thus growing the league's global footprint. This international expansion is a vital component of the NFL's overarching strategy to cement its status as the premier spectator sport worldwide.
The timing of the Super Bowl stands as another intriguing aspect of this potential overhaul. Ending the season on Presidents’ Day weekend in the United States is under consideration due to the strategic leverage it might provide. Goodell envisioned, "It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off," hinting at the added convenience for fans to immerse themselves thoroughly in the grand event of the Super Bowl, following a traditional American holiday.
Player Union’s Role
Before any of these ideas can become reality, the NFL plans to conduct a comprehensive analysis and present its findings to the players union. The role of the players in this decision cannot be understated. Their input is crucial, given the potential impact on player health, game performance, and recovery. As expressed by Goodell through NFL Media, "We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point." This cautious yet calculated approach underscores the league’s intent to build consensus and ensure that any extension benefits the entire NFL community.
In sum, while the proposal to expand the NFL regular season to 18 games from 17 is not currently at the forefront of official decisions, it remains a topic laden with possibilities. Balancing the demands of competitive sports with the dynamics of a global audience is no small task. Roger Goodell and the NFL continue to explore opportunities that might redefine the experience of professional football for fans and players alike. While discussions are still in an exploratory stage, the potential changes could mark another significant evolution in the NFL’s ever-expanding history.