Sun Jan 25 21:30:00 UTC 2026: # NFL Owners Push for 18-Game Season with International Twist, Sparking Player Concerns

The Story:
Despite a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) signed in 2020, NFL owners are aggressively pursuing the addition of an 18th game to the regular season schedule, according to a report on January 23, 2026. The proposal, championed by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, includes shortening the preseason to two games and mandating that each team play one international game per year, expanding the international schedule to 16 games. This push has reignited concerns from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) about player health and safety, especially given the existing 17-game season implemented in 2020.

The current CBA, which expires in 2031, already expanded the regular season and playoffs while reducing the preseason. While owners focus on the increased revenue potential from additional games and international exposure, the NFLPA remains wary of any changes that could compromise player well-being. There are also suggestions that the NFL may push for reseeding teams in the playoffs regardless of division standings, potentially impacting home-field advantage for division winners.

Key Points:

  • NFL owners are pushing for an 18-game regular season.
  • The proposal includes shortening the preseason to two games and requiring each team to play one international game annually.
  • Robert Kraft publicly announced the plan, emphasizing the financial benefits.
  • The NFLPA is expected to resist the proposal due to player health concerns.
  • The current CBA, signed in 2020, runs through 2031.
  • There are rumblings of additional playoff format changes contingent on the 18-game season.

Critical Analysis:

The provided context shows that NFL Owners have been considering the 18-game season for at least the past few days (since January 25, 2026), and that their main goal is increased revenue. This indicates that this plan is not new, and the Owners have been actively planning this for some time.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NFL is prioritizing revenue generation through schedule expansion and international games.
  • The NFLPA’s concerns about player safety remain a significant obstacle to the 18-game proposal.
  • The current CBA effectively prevents changes until 2031, unless an agreement can be reached with the NFLPA.
  • Potential playoff format changes could be tied to the 18-game season proposal.
  • The push for an 18-game season is likely to intensify negotiations between the NFL and NFLPA in the coming years.

Impact Analysis:

The NFL’s pursuit of an 18-game season could have significant long-term implications for the league. If implemented, it could lead to increased player injuries, potentially shortening careers and impacting the quality of play. The expanded international presence could broaden the NFL’s global fanbase and revenue streams, but it also raises logistical and competitive fairness concerns. Ultimately, the success of this proposal hinges on the NFL’s ability to address the NFLPA’s concerns and ensure player safety remains a priority. The structure of professional football could be altered drastically depending on whether this plan is successful.

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