In recent discussions reminiscent of the monumental shift from 16 to 17 games in 2021, the NFL is again contemplating a significant change to its regular season structure. During the league's December meeting, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell opened the conversation about further extending the regular season from 17 to 18 games. Although this concept is not currently a priority on Goodell’s agenda, it signifies a potential evolution in how the NFL manages its calendar and engages with global audiences.
Embracing Change: The Path to Expansion
The idea of extending the regular season seems to be gathering momentum. Goodell has expressed support for such a change, coupled with the possibility of reducing the already condensed preseason. "If we got to 18 and 2, that's not an unreasonable thing," he remarked, laying the groundwork for what might become a new standard in NFL scheduling.
Goodell's vision doesn't stop at mere logistical adjustments. Expansion, he argues, provides an opportunity to globalize the league's reach. "That will open up more inventory to allow us to play more globally," he stated, hinting at the potentially lucrative markets that an extended regular season might tap into, beyond its current confines.
Strategic Analysis Underway
Before any concrete steps are taken, comprehensive analysis is being conducted. The NFL, cautious as ever, is meticulously evaluating the implications of extending the regular season and plans to present its findings to the players union. "We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point," Goodell said through NFL Media, suggesting a thoughtful yet unhurried approach.
The timing of these potential changes could align perfectly with other significant NFL calendar adjustments. Goodell mentioned that ending the Super Bowl on Presidents’ Day weekend offers a strategic advantage. "It makes it Sunday night and then you have Monday off," he pointed out, a change that could increase viewership and fan participation by exploiting a natural holiday on the calendar.
The Journey from 16 to 17…and Beyond?
The NFL’s history of adjusting its schedule isn't new. In a major shakeup, 2021 saw the league transition from a 16-game to a 17-game regular season, a change preceded by an expansion of the postseason. By increasing from 12 to 14 playoff teams, the stage was set for a dynamic competition format where only the No. 1 seed in each conference receives a playoff bye.
This evolution was part of a broader strategy to enhance the league’s entertainment value and competitive balance. More changes to the NFL's schedule seem inevitable as the league continues to seek ways to optimize its appeal both domestically and internationally.
Change in the Air, but No Rush
As much as change appears on the horizon, for Goodell, these developments aren’t immediate priorities. The world saw how the NFL adapted when it completely omitted the preseason in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. This established a precedent for flexibility and innovation in scheduling, which the league might leverage in pursuing more permanent changes.
For now, the talks continue, and the NFL remains in its analytical phase. Both the league and fans can expect that any decision will weigh the intricate balance of player welfare, competitive fairness, and commercial gain. As evidence of the league's commitment to such a balance, the forthcoming analyses and discussions with the players' union will shed light on the feasibility and desirability of an expanded regular season.
Ultimately, whether the NFL chooses to extend the regular season hinges on how well they manage this careful calibration of progress and tradition. The sports world will watch with keen interest as Goodell and league executives navigate the road ahead.