The NFLPA's interim executive director, David White, stated that an 18-game regular season is not guaranteed and has not been discussed with the NFL, emphasizing ongoing negotiations and focus on player interests, while also addressing union leadership and upcoming initiatives like flag football in the 2028 Olympics.
Five NFL players may experience an 18-game season without a bye week due to mid-season trades. These players, including Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith, were traded from teams that hadn't had their bye week to teams that already had, resulting in a continuous playing schedule. This situation highlights the potential challenges of an expanded NFL season, reminiscent of historical instances where players participated in more than the standard number of games.
As the NFL moves towards an 18-game regular season, the players' union is preparing to negotiate for larger rosters, with at least 55 active players and 50 in uniform on game day, along with more flexibility for practice-squad elevations. The NFLPA aims to compile a comprehensive list of requests to present in exchange for agreeing to the extended season.
Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly, an NFLPA executive committee member, strongly opposes NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's proposal to expand the regular season to 18 games, citing the physical toll on players and the negative impact on undrafted and late-round players. The NFLPA is expected to push back against the proposal, which would require collective bargaining to implement.
The NFL is pushing for an 18-game regular season, which will require complex negotiations between team owners and the players' union over revenue sharing, player health benefits, and offseason restructuring. The league aims to finalize this before renegotiating its TV and streaming deals in 2029, but achieving a 50-50 revenue split and other player demands will be contentious.
The NFL is considering expanding the regular season to 18 games, reducing preseason games to two, and potentially renegotiating the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) before its 2030 expiration. Commissioner Roger Goodell and team owners are in favor, while players may seek increased revenue shares, improved offseason and training camp conditions, and other benefits in return. The move could significantly boost league revenue and align with future broadcast deals, solidifying Goodell's legacy and establishing new NFLPA leadership.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has downplayed the immediate push for an 18-game regular season, emphasizing player safety, collaboration with the players' association, and the quality of the game. While he acknowledges the long-term consideration of expanding the season, he insists that the current focus remains on maintaining the 17-game format and potentially reducing preseason games. The idea of an 18-game season remains on the radar, driven by the league's interest in increasing fan engagement and revenue opportunities.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell discussed the potential for an 18-game season, stating it is a long-term consideration and would involve reducing preseason games. He also provided an update on Tom Brady's progress toward becoming a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, noting ongoing discussions about his role and access for broadcasting duties.
Giants owner John Mara expressed reservations about expanding the NFL regular season to 18 games, citing concerns over player fatigue, although he acknowledged that most owners are in favor of the change.
New York Giants owner John Mara expresses concerns about extending the NFL regular season to 18 games due to worries about player fatigue and wear and tear, prompting discussions with the players union. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledges the possibility but emphasizes the importance of player safety and quality, suggesting a reduced preseason as a potential trade-off. Despite potential resistance, an 18-game season may be proposed within the next 12-18 months, with considerations for an extra bye week and a later Super Bowl date.