NFL Players Express Reluctance Towards 18-Game Regular Season Expansion, NFLPA Executive Reveals

NFL Players Express Reluctance Towards 18-Game Regular Season Expansion

While the NFL leadership remains enthusiastic about the prospect of expanding the regular season to 18 games, players do not share the same excitement. This sentiment was echoed by NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell, who highlighted player concerns during a recent statement.

Commissioner Goodell’s Vision for More Football

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has openly discussed his interest in extending the regular season. At a pre-Super Bowl news conference, Goodell mentioned the necessity of additional evaluation before implementing any changes. “We know fans love football and they want more football,” he said. “But we have to be incredibly sensitive and smart with the balance and how we deal with that.”

The Players’ Perspective

Howell provided insight into the players’ stance, emphasizing that their interests take precedence in this discussion. “Their side hasn’t raised it, we certainly haven’t raised it. Any commentary outside of a formal negotiation is just commentary,” he stated.

When observing player sentiments over the past two seasons, Howell noted, “No one wants to play an 18th game. No one. Seventeen games is already, for many of the guys, too long.” This underscores the physical toll that an extended season could impose on athletes.

Health and Safety Concerns

One of the significant issues identified by Howell relates to health and safety. “It’s a player’s decision as to what they will agree to do or not,” he stressed. As NFL players face high injury risks, adding another game could exacerbate concerns over recovery time.

Howell elaborated further, stating, “No matter what Roger says, you open up that CBA (collective bargaining agreement) and we’re going to get into field surfaces, we’re going to get into safety, we’re going to get into a lot of things.” These considerations highlight the complexities of altering the existing CBA in pursuit of an extended season.

Revenue Discussions on the Table

Revenue also remains a contentious topic in this debate. Under the current CBA, the players’ share of league revenue increased from 47% to 48% starting in 2021. Following the implementation of the 17-game schedule, this share was further elevated to 48.5% due to enhanced television contracts.

Howell pointed out that any expansion in the regular season would likely prompt negotiations on revenue distribution as well. “If I’m asking my workforce to work more, it’s not as simple as I’m gonna fall back on the revenue split that already exists,” he commented. “There are so many dimensions that hang off the length of the season.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of the NFL

As discussions continue about the possibility of an 18-game season, the NFL must navigate the concerns and well-being of its players. Balancing the excitement of expanding the schedule with the necessity of ensuring player safety and fair revenue distribution will undoubtedly challenge NFL leadership.

In conclusion, while the desire for more football remains strong among fans, it’s crucial to acknowledge and address the perspective of the players. Their health and interests should remain paramount as the NFL contemplates the future of its schedule.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.