NFL Weighs Options on Extending Regular Season
The NFL has entered discussions regarding the potential extension of its regular season from 17 to 18 games, as revealed in a recent league meeting led by Commissioner Roger Goodell. The concept, while intriguing, is not at the forefront of the Commissioner’s current priorities. However, the notion of expanding the regular season has floated around the league's inner circles, fueled by both strategic considerations and the desire to further enhance the NFL’s global reach.
"If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing," Commissioner Goodell remarked, indicating an openness to a longer season potentially accompanied by a reduction in preseason games. The idea aligns with the league's ongoing efforts to innovate and expand its offerings, both domestically and internationally. Yet, any immediate action remains speculative.
In 2021, the NFL made a significant change to its structure by transitioning from a 16-game regular season to 17 games. This change was part of a broader strategy that included expanding the playoff format. Originally featuring 12 teams, the playoff structure was increased to 14, allowing only the top-seeded team from each conference to receive a coveted bye week. The changes have been met with varying reactions from teams and fans alike, but have undeniably increased interest and engagement in the sport. The league's ability to navigate such changes sets a precedent for further adaptations, such as an 18-game season.
The NFL is approaching the potential shift with careful consideration, conducting a comprehensive analysis to weigh the benefits and drawbacks. "We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point," Goodell stated through NFL Media. The league is keenly aware of the need to present any changes, backed by solid analysis, to the players' union. This step is essential for gaining the necessary buy-in from those directly impacted by an extended regular season— the players themselves.
Reducing the preseason is one option under consideration to accommodate the proposal without overburdening athletes. A noteworthy consideration is aligning the Super Bowl with Presidents’ Day weekend, which could offer strategic advantages, notably in terms of viewership and scheduling.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the league's operations in 2020 by forcing the omission of the preseason, has led to reevaluations of traditional schedules. This crisis catalyzed innovative thinking within the league as it navigated the challenges posed by unprecedented restrictions. Such adaptability has prepared the NFL to consider further transformative changes, such as an 18-game season.
Goodell highlighted the potential for a longer season to open up more opportunities beyond the standard American audience. "That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally," he noted. The league’s ambition to expand internationally could be significantly bolstered by an extended season, which may offer more lucrative opportunities for games abroad. This aligns with the NFL’s strategic push to establish a more robust international presence.
Nevertheless, any drastic change will require careful scrutiny and stakeholder consensus. The league must strike a balance between commercial interests and the welfare of its players, ensuring that any restructuring strengthens the sport rather than diluting its competitive spirit.
As discussions continue, the NFL remains committed to conducting thorough analyses before taking decisive action. The prospect of an 18-game season, while still a speculative endeavor, exemplifies the league’s forward-thinking ethos and its readiness to evolve in response to market demands and strategic imperatives.
In the words of Roger Goodell, “It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off,” hinting at a schedule adjustment that could cater to fan convenience while marking a new era in professional football. The upcoming league findings, and subsequent proposals to the players' union, will likely set the stage for years of potential growth and transformation in one of the world’s most popular sports.