What's Happening?
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has publicly supported expanding the NFL regular season from 17 to 18 games. Jones argues that this change would benefit both the league and the players. This is not a new stance for Jones, who previously advocated for an 18-game
regular season with two preseason games back in 2018, when the league played 16 regular-season games and four preseason contests. The NFL has since adjusted its calendar to 17 regular-season games and three preseason games. Jones suggests that an 18-game regular season under the current format would involve converting one of the remaining exhibition games into a regular-season match. He believes this would lead to better-prepared teams at the start of the regular season by reducing preseason games. However, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has expressed opposition to the idea, a position they also held during the previous expansion to 17 games in 2021. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes voiced reservations in 2025, suggesting the need for more bye weeks to accommodate an extended season.
Why It's Important?
The potential expansion of the NFL regular season to 18 games carries significant implications for player safety, league revenue, and the collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the NFLPA. For the league, an additional regular-season game could translate into increased broadcast rights, ticket sales, and sponsorship opportunities, further boosting the NFL's already substantial financial standing. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft also supports the concept for the long-term growth and development of the league, particularly in generating 'real content' and moving away from less impactful preseason games. However, players, represented by the NFLPA, are concerned about the physical toll of an extended season. An 18-game schedule would increase the risk of injuries and player fatigue, potentially shortening careers. The NFLPA's opposition highlights a fundamental tension between the league's financial interests and player welfare. Any move to an 18-game season would require negotiation with the players' union, making it a critical point of discussion in future collective bargaining. The debate also touches on the quality of play, with some arguing that more games could dilute the product, while others believe it offers more meaningful competition.
What's Next?
While Jerry Jones believes an 18-game season is not far off, he acknowledges that any such change requires negotiation with the NFL Players Association. The NFLPA has consistently opposed the idea, indicating a potential standoff. Key players like Patrick Mahomes have expressed concerns about player safety and the need for additional bye weeks. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has proposed alternative solutions, such as spreading out current bye weeks and adding a second one around Week 13, possibly with a Pro Bowl-style event during that break. Tight end George Kittle has also stated conditions under which he would accept an 18-game season. Owners like Robert Kraft support the expansion for league growth, while others, such as Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam, consider discussions 'a little premature.' The recent appointment of JC Tretter as the NFLPA's executive director and the league's push for more international games will likely influence future discussions. A detailed roadmap for such a significant change is not yet available, and it will depend heavily on future negotiations and player feedback.
Beyond the Headlines
The discussion around an 18-game NFL season extends beyond immediate financial and player safety concerns, touching upon the evolving nature of professional sports and athlete labor rights. The NFL's continuous pursuit of expansion, including international games, reflects a broader strategy to maximize revenue and global reach. This push often clashes with the growing awareness and advocacy for player well-being, particularly regarding long-term health impacts from concussions and other injuries. The NFLPA's resistance underscores the increasing power of player unions in demanding better working conditions and a greater share of the league's prosperity. This dynamic is a microcosm of labor relations in high-stakes industries, where economic growth must be balanced with employee welfare. The debate also raises questions about the optimal length of a sports season for fan engagement and competitive integrity. Finding a compromise that satisfies both the league's financial ambitions and the players' health and safety concerns will be crucial for the NFL's sustained success and reputation.
