Expanding the NFL schedule to 18 games has been a topic of debate for years and has recently gained significant momentum.
While opinions on its feasibility remain divided, one insider believes the question is no longer “if” it will happen, but “when.”
18-Game Regular Season Talks Could Start Soon
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk recently reported that the talks between the NFL and the NFL Players Association could begin as soon as June or July, with the 2027 season as the potential first to expand to 18 games.
“The reality is that the league and the union can reach any agreement on any terms at any time. They can agree on 18 games without extending the term of the current CBA. They can do a comprehensive renegotiation, including 18 games. They can do whatever they want.
“The sooner the league and the union agree to an 18th game, the more leverage the players will have. And remember this — the dates for the next two Super Bowls are set. Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta does not yet have a firm date. In theory, then, an 18th game could be added as soon as 2027.”
Florio argued that the NFL and the owners wanted it as it would arguably lead to more revenue, and it was only a matter of when they reached the agreement with NFLPA. Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin, also suggested the same last week, claiming it would happen inevitably.
“I listen and hear like you guys do,” Tomlin said via Mark Maske of The Washington Post. “I think (an 18-game season has) been thrown about so much with so much regularity, I think it’s probably inevitable.”
Adding another game had been rumored for some time after expanding the season to 17 games in 2021. Still, the NFL hadn’t taken any significant steps by now, and the talks taking place later this year would be the first concrete push from the league to make it happen.
However, player safety, logistics, and the league calendar are some of the concerns the league would have to deal with.
Key Issues the NFL Faces in Expanding to 18-Games
For years, fans and others around the league have suggested pushing the season back so the Super Bowl lands just before Presidents Day, giving most Americans the Monday off. If an 18th game is added, that shift could happen naturally—and it might be a win for fans, even if it doesn’t offer much benefit to the players.
However, starting earlier would cut into players’ offseason recovery time. Even a one- or two-week shift could lead to more injuries, ultimately harming the overall product.
Then, there’s the issue of contracts.
Would guaranteed money change? Would incentives be adjusted? Would existing deals need to be reworked?
The NFL’s financial structure would undergo a significant shift. If the league sees increased revenue, player contracts would likely rise as well—at least in theory.
Ultimately, it all boils down to money. And if the NFL adds another game with profits in mind, players will expect a share of that, too.
It’s still uncertain how things will unfold, but as Tomlin put it, it wouldn’t be surprising if that 18th game becomes part of the regular season.