The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has expressed strong opposition to the notion of expanding the NFL regular season to 18 games. This stance comes in response to comments made by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who suggested that safety data does not deter the league from considering such an expansion. Lloyd Howell Jr., the executive director of the NFLPA, refuted Goodell’s claims, emphasizing that player safety remains a top priority.
"Frankly, we're not sure how he's reaching that conclusion based on the data we've been given access to." – Lloyd Howell Jr.
Discussions around an 18-game season have been informal so far, as confirmed by both the NFLPA and Goodell. The current length of the season is embedded in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), and any change would require approval from both team owners and players. Players have expressed considerable resistance to further extending the regular season, especially after the addition of a 17th game in 2021.
"No one wants to play an 18th game. No one," – Lloyd Howell Jr.
The present CBA, ratified in 2020, is set to expire after the 2030 season. During this period, any adjustments to the regular season would necessitate a formal vote. Players are particularly concerned about the impact of an extended season on their safety and well-being, with many feeling that even 17 games is excessive.
"Seventeen games is already, for many of the guys, too long. Seventeen games is also so lengthy that you're still dealing with injuries going into the next season." – Lloyd Howell Jr.
The NFLPA has raised concerns regarding the schedule and travel demands placed on teams. This season alone saw multiple teams playing three games in just ten days, while the Green Bay Packers traveled to Brazil and back within a mere 48-hour window. Such rigorous schedules could be exacerbated by an extended season, leading to further player fatigue and injury risks.
In addition to domestic scheduling challenges, Howell highlighted the NFL's growing international footprint. The league currently caps international games at ten per season, a figure that may need reevaluation if the season expands.
"They truly want to look at the international [aspect] of the game. So how does that fit into 18 games?" – Lloyd Howell Jr.
The NFLPA is also advocating for players to receive a share of the revenue generated by any expanded season. The recent involvement of private equity in team ownership, with franchises like the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins selling minority stakes, has underscored the league's increasing value.
"The new role of private equity in the league has made me think about how every other industry incentivize their top talent by giving them equity, so that when the organization becomes more valuable, the employees share it." – Lloyd Howell Jr.
In recognition of contributions off the field, New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton was honored with the NFLPA’s annual Alan Page Community Award. This accolade reflects the association's commitment to player welfare beyond just game performance.
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