As the National Football League (NFL) continues to explore its future format, intriguing insights have been revealed regarding the possibility of extending the regular season to 18 games. In December, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell sparked discussions during a league meeting about the potential expansion from the current 17-game format, though he emphasized that this concept is not immediately pressing on his agenda.
Current Initiatives and Considerations
Experiments in alignment and scheduling have characterized recent league developments, notably the transition from a 16-game to a 17-game regular season in 2021. With the league's reputation for careful strategizing, this incremental approach reflects the executive focus on maintaining competitive balance and maximizing audience engagement. "We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point," shared Goodell, reinforcing the thoroughness of the league's methodology.
The idea of an 18-game season, referenced by Goodell as "not an unreasonable thing," hints at underlying strategic goals. Furthermore, Goodell notes the potential benefits of increased international reach, stating, "That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally." This global perspective resonates with the NFL's long-standing ambition to expand its international footprint, evidenced by its ongoing annual international series games.
A Shift in Calendar
A particularly intriguing proposition is the possibility of re-scheduling the Super Bowl to align with Presidents' Day weekend. By doing so, the NFL could capitalize on a strategic advantage: extending the festivities to a long weekend where fans can enjoy the championship without the inflexibility of a typical workday. As Goodell explains, "It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off," potentially maximizing viewership and fan participation.
Impact on the Preseason
The NFL's examination of scheduling not only considers expanding the regular season but also a concurrent reduction in preseason games. The preseason, historically seen as a necessary but often criticized precursor to the regular season, was notably omitted in 2020 due to COVID-19. Reducing its length may provide an opportunity to reallocate player health and safety resources, potentially alleviating concerns over player workload associated with a longer season.
Players' Union and Next Steps
Crucially, the NFL's decisions hinge on the forthcoming comprehensive analysis, a thorough examination meant to ensure that stakeholders, including the players' union, are well-informed before any significant changes are enacted. The NFL's process underscores the league's commitment to collaborative and data-driven decision-making. The final findings and proposals, once laid out to the players, will inevitably influence the direction of NFL scheduling and competition structure.
As the debate unfolds, the balance between advancing league ambitions and preserving the welfare of players remains central to the conversation. The potential for an 18-game season presents both opportunities and challenges, each demanding careful deliberation and consensus before any change takes effect. While an expanded season poses an attractive prospect for fans and league officials alike, its implementation will require navigating complex logistical and practical considerations.
With no decisions final at this point, the NFL's measured approach reflects its longstanding tradition of building consensus through strategic assessment and stakeholder engagement. The conversation, ever-evolving, sets the stage for transformative potential while reinforcing the NFL’s commitment to its legacy and future growth.