NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has given a measured update on the league’s ongoing discussions about expanding the regular season to 18 games ahead of Super Bowl LX.
While the topic has gained traction among some team owners, Goodell made it clear that no decision has been made and that several major issues would need to be resolved before any change could take place.
The comments follow increased public discussion about the long-term shape of the NFL calendar.
Roger Goodell plays down inevitability of 18-game NFL season
Roger Goodell stressed that an 18-game regular season is far from a done deal, noting that the league has not yet begun formal discussions with the NFL Players Association.
He highlighted player safety, competitive balance, roster sizes, and the possible need for an additional bye week as areas that would need to be addressed through collective bargaining.
“We have not had any formal discussions about it and, frankly, very little, if any, informal conversations.”
“I’ve heard people talk about it. It is not a given that we’ll do that. It is not something that we assume will happen. It is something we want to talk about with union leadership.”
Goodell also pointed out that the current collective bargaining agreement runs through 2030, meaning any expansion would require negotiation rather than a unilateral league decision.
Owner enthusiasm contrasts with league office caution
The commissioner’s cautious tone follows recent comments from New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who revealed that expanding to 18 regular-season games has been discussed by some owners as a possible long-term route.
While interest in international growth and schedule expansion is evident at the ownership level, Goodell has emphasised that alignment with players remains essential before any changes move forward.
For now, the NFL continues to balance its global ambitions with concerns around workload and safety, leaving the future of an 18-game season unresolved.
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