NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is making headlines once again as he champions the idea of extending the regular season to 18 games. During a recent appearance on Bloomberg TV, he expressed confidence in this potential change, citing the positive impact of the NFL's shift from the traditional 16-game schedule to the current 17-game format introduced in 2021.

Goodell emphasized that the league's successful transition to 17 regular-season games, paired with three preseason games, sets a clear precedent for expanding to 18 regular-season games and two preseason games. “We would keep within that 20-game framework,” he stated, underscoring the league's commitment to maintaining the overall structure of the season. This progression—from 16 and four to 17 and three, and now potentially to 18 and two—highlights the NFL's evolving approach to scheduling.

However, any shift to an 18-game schedule would require the approval of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). Concerns have been raised by some players and union representatives about the risk of increased injuries due to a longer season. Although Goodell argues that the introduction of the 17-game schedule has not led to a rise in injury rates—thanks in part to enhanced training protocols and rule changes—players remain cautious.

The NFL is no stranger to change, having played 16-game seasons for a remarkable 43 years, including seasons impacted by strikes, before making the leap to 17 games. As the league considers this new adjustment, fans and stakeholders alike eagerly await the potential implications for gameplay, player health, and overall league dynamics.

With these discussions underway, the question looms: are players ready for the rigors of an extended season? Could this be the transformation that redefines NFL football as we know it? As Goodell pushes forward with this agenda, all eyes will be on the NFLPA's response, as well as the effect on both player performance and fan engagement in the years to come.