Full Breakdown
NFL's Potential Shift to an 18-Game Schedule: Robert Kraft's Vision for Global Expansion
1/21/2026, 7:59:28 AM
Robert Kraft Advocates for Change
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has publicly advocated for the NFL to expand its regular season to 18 games while reducing the preseason to two games. During an interview on January 20, 2026, Kraft emphasized the importance of increasing international games, stating, “Every team will go to 18 [regular-season games] and two [preseason games] and eliminate one of the preseason games. Every team, every year, will play one game overseas.” This proposal aligns with the NFL's ongoing efforts to enhance its global presence and revenue streams.
The Rationale Behind the Expansion
Kraft articulated that the push for an 18-game schedule is driven by the need to grow revenue and maintain labor peace within the league. He noted that “93 of the top 100 programs on television are NFL games,” highlighting the league's significant viewership and crowd sizes compared to other sports. Kraft believes that expanding the schedule and increasing international games will help sustain the financial health of the league and keep players satisfied.
Current Landscape and Future Prospects
The NFL has already made strides in its international outreach, having played a record seven games overseas in 2025, with plans to increase that number to nine in 2026. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has expressed support for the idea of an 18-game season, indicating that it will be a major topic during upcoming collective bargaining negotiations. The current collective bargaining agreement, which introduced the 17th game, runs through 2030, but discussions could commence as early as this offseason.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the enthusiasm from Kraft and Goodell, the proposal for an 18-game schedule has faced skepticism, particularly from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). Concerns have been raised regarding player safety and the physical toll of an extended season. The NFLPA previously opposed the idea of adding more games, and it remains to be seen how they will respond to Kraft's renewed push.
Official Statements & Responses
Kraft's comments reflect a broader ambition within the NFL to establish itself as a global sport. He stated, “We want to have our game played on a global basis, and we want to bring our game to a global audience.” This sentiment echoes Goodell's earlier remarks about the necessity of expanding the league's international footprint, as he noted, “In today’s world, we have to be global.”
What's Next
As discussions around the potential 18-game schedule continue, the NFL will likely focus on negotiating terms with the NFLPA. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly influence the structure of future seasons and the league's international strategy. The NFL's commitment to expanding its global presence suggests that international games will play a crucial role in its long-term vision.
