NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recently announced the possibility of expanding the regular season to 18 games and playing 16 international matches every year. This proposal would involve each of the 32 teams playing at least one international game annually, with the potential for even more. Goodell mentioned that cities like Dublin and Rio de Janeiro are in consideration as new host locations for these international matches. Additionally, the Jacksonville Jaguars are contemplating increasing their games in London during stadium renovations.
The current plan involves reducing the number of preseason games to two and incorporating a second bye week into the schedule. While the idea of an 18-game season has been met with some resistance, it seems to be gaining traction as the NFL moves forward with its international expansion goals. Goodell emphasized the league’s desire to quickly increase the number of international games from the current five to eight.
London has been a staple host city for regular-season games since 2007, with Germany joining the lineup in 2022. Looking ahead, the league is exploring opportunities in other regions such as Asia, where there is growing interest in hosting NFL games. Goodell expressed confidence in the future of international games, pointing to potential locations like Dublin and Rio de Janeiro as exciting prospects for upcoming seasons.
As the NFL continues to evolve and expand its global footprint, the addition of more international games could provide fans with a unique and exciting experience. The prospect of seeing new teams and matchups in different parts of the world adds a fresh dimension to the traditional football season. With the support of team owners and the players union, the league appears to be on track to make Goodell’s vision of a more international NFL a reality.
