During the Scouting Combine, it was evident that the NFL is still interested in expanding the regular season to 18 games.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin, a player for the New NFL Players Association, was asked about this possibility and he did not outright dismiss it.
When asked about possibly expanding the season to 18 games, new NFLPA president Jalen Reeves-Maybin seems to leave the door open to the possibility. https://t.co/xig0EY0Kef
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 18, 2024
He believes there are other things to consider and will address it when the time comes.
The idea of expanding the season to 18 games was initially brought up by the Browns’ G.M. Andrew Berry, who proposed moving the trade deadline back by two weeks to accommodate it.
The most likely time for expansion to occur would be when the current labor deal expires in the next decade, although the league and union can reach an agreement at any time.
However, it could be challenging to sell this idea to the players as the previous willingness to agree to a 17-game season caused issues within the union.
Ultimately, the willingness of the owners to lockout the players for a full season may be the deciding factor.
The NFL will have the opportunity to threaten a lock out when the current Collective Bargaining Agreement expires.
Fans reacted as follows:
More games means shorter careers. Players should oppose this vehemently. The toll on their bodies is already frightening.
— Richard Eng (@RichEng4ProPick) March 18, 2024
While you're playing the 'let's make an issue up because it's slow" game, how do you think a European Division will happen without at least a 20 game season?
— kpk001 (@kpk001) March 18, 2024
I guess they’re running out of money. The 17 game season isn’t bringing in enough. Either that or it’s such a great diversion from real life, they want to extend it.
— Maddacci (@Maddacci) March 18, 2024
20 games w 4 bye weeks for each team is the solution. Fans get more games owners get more money players get more rest/safety… and money
— Sizzerb (@sizzerb23) March 18, 2024
Need an extra bye week
— Champdapug (@champdapug) March 18, 2024
