NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Explores 18-Game Season, International Schedule Expansion

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has proposed extending the regular season to 18 games, potentially shifting the Super Bowl to Presidents' Day weekend. He also discussed expanding the international schedule and streaming platforms, seeking broader fan engagement and interaction.

Appearing on "The Pat McAfee Show," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell raised the possibility of extending the NFL regular season to 18 games, potentially rescheduling the Super Bowl to take place during Presidents' Day weekend.

Goodell expressed enthusiasm for the potential change, citing a desire to replace preseason games with regular-season contests for enhanced quality. He acknowledged that any such modification would require collective bargaining with the NFL Players Association.

Commissioner Goodell also addressed the NFL's plans to expand its international schedule. He predicted that the league could potentially play 16 games internationally within the next decade and aims to reach eight or nine international games in the near term.

Additionally, Goodell emphasized the importance of streaming platforms in reaching broader audiences and fostering fan engagement. He pointed to the positive results of the NFL's partnerships with Amazon Prime and YouTube, which have not only attracted younger audiences but also provided opportunities for alternative broadcasts and enhanced fan interaction.

Goodell expressed his preference for eliminating preseason games altogether, believing that regular-season games offer greater quality for fans and players alike. He believes that replacing preseason games with regular-season contests would improve the overall experience and competitiveness of the NFL.

Any changes to the NFL's schedule, including the extension of the regular season, would have to be bargained collectively with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). The NFLPA represents the interests of the players and has a voice in decisions regarding the league's structure and policies.

Streaming platforms, such as Amazon Prime and YouTube, have allowed the NFL to reach new audiences and increase fan engagement. The interactive capabilities of these platforms enable alternative broadcasts, fan interaction, and tailored content, providing a more personalized and immersive viewing experience.

While Commissioner Goodell has floated the idea of a potential 18-game season and other changes, no formal steps have been taken to pursue these initiatives at this time. Any significant alterations to the league's format would require extensive discussions and negotiations between the NFL and the NFLPA.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's proposals to extend the regular season, expand the international schedule, and embrace streaming platforms reflect his vision for the future of the NFL. These changes aim to enhance fan engagement, reach broader audiences, and improve the overall quality of the league's product. While the implementation of these initiatives remains subject to collective bargaining and further discussion, Goodell's ideas provide a glimpse into the potential trajectory of the NFL.