In the ongoing evolution of the National Football League (NFL), the idea of extending the regular season from 17 to 18 games has once again surfaced. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, during a league meeting in December, broached the topic, which has intrigued fans and analysts alike. However, Goodell made it clear that this potential change is not at the forefront of his agenda at present.
"We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point," Goodell stated through NFL Media. This careful approach indicates that the league is conducting a comprehensive evaluation before committing to any formal steps. The possibility of extending the regular season inherently complicates the existing schedule, which currently features 17 games following the transition from a 16-game season in 2021.
Strategic Adjustments
One strategy being considered to accommodate the longer season is the reduction of preseason games. The league aims to strike a balance that maintains player welfare while offering fans more regular-season action. In discussing potential changes, Goodell noted, "If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing." This suggests a shift towards two preseason games, which would reduce the risk of injury before the actual competition begins.
The NFL's contemplation of a new schedule also aligns with broader strategic goals, such as increasing the league's global presence. "That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally," Goodell added, hinting at international expansion. The league has already shown interest in globalizing its brand with regular games in London and Mexico City, and an 18-game regular season could provide further opportunities for international fixtures.
Football’s Calendar and Event Timing
Timing is another crucial aspect of the NFL's deliberations. Ending the Super Bowl on Presidents’ Day weekend might present a strategic advantage. As Goodell noted, "It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off," offering fans a long weekend to celebrate football's grand finale. This timing could enhance viewership and fan engagement during America's most-watched sporting event.
Union Considerations and Historical Context
For any significant changes, alignment with the players union is paramount. The findings from the NFL's analysis will eventually be presented to the union for discussions. This follows the precedent of how the current 17-game schedule and expanded playoff structure—with the latter increasing from 12 to 14 teams and offering first-round byes only to the top seeds—were implemented. Both changes were introduced after meticulous negotiations and consideration of player and team impacts.
Reflecting on recent history, the NFL's schedule has already seen significant adjustments. The preseason was entirely omitted in 2020 due to COVID-19, which influenced both player readiness and team strategies. Thus, the league's cautious approach in considering further adjustments seems prudent, ensuring any future changes benefit all stakeholders involved.
As discussions continue, fans eagerly await further developments. While the potential transition to an 18-game season sparks enthusiasm, the league appears committed to methodical planning and collaboration with various parties involved. This measured approach should ensure that any eventual changes will be holistic and sustainable, keeping the NFL's global and domestic audiences engaged.