As the NFL looks toward the future, Commissioner Roger Goodell is contemplating a potentially significant shift in the league's structure: the expansion of the regular season from 17 to 18 games. This idea was broached during a league meeting last December, signaling ongoing discussions about the future direction of NFL scheduling.
While the notion of an 18-game regular season could reshape the landscape of professional football, Goodell has made it clear that this is not an immediate priority on his agenda. "We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point," he commented through NFL Media, indicating a cautious and deliberate approach to any potential changes.
Evaluating Options
In considering this change, the NFL is open to reducing the preseason to accommodate the longer regular season. The preseason has long been a topic of discussion, particularly after being omitted in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. The abbreviated preseason version would theoretically leave more room for regular-season fixtures, a concept that Goodell suggests might be beneficial. "If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing," he noted.
The ongoing analysis aims to understand the effects this potential transition could have on all aspects of the game. Integral to this strategy is the league's comprehensive review process, which will eventually be presented to the players union. Key to making the transition smooth would be obtaining buy-in from players, who would face longer seasons and potentially increased risks.
Global Implications
Beyond the domestic sphere, an expanded season resonates with the NFL’s ambitions on a global scale. Goodell stated, "That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally." By increasing the number of regular-season games, the league could bring more marquee matchups to international locations, further capitalizing on its growing global audience.
Strategic Calendar Adjustments
Additionally, discussions are underway regarding the calendar positioning of the NFL's marquee event, the Super Bowl. Aligning the Super Bowl with Presidents’ Day weekend presents a strategic advantage, offering fans a long weekend to celebrate and creating additional viewer engagement opportunities. As Goodell intriguingly suggested, "It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off," highlighting how such a shift might enhance fan experience and viewership.
A Historical Perspective
Reflecting on recent changes, the NFL's shift from a 16-game to a 17-game regular season in 2021 and the expansion from 12 to 14 playoff teams showcases the league’s willingness to evolve. These adjustments included the critical change of reserving playoff byes exclusively for the number one seeds in each conference, revamping the postseason landscape.
While the possible transition to an 18-game regular season is tantalizing, the league's meticulous approach underscores its commitment to making well-informed decisions that consider the welfare of players, the desires of fans, and the league's financial interests. As discussions continue, stakeholders across the sport will keenly watch how these plans evolve, each step a potential harbinger of the next era in professional football.