Overview
- Several owners, who voiced support Monday at league meetings in Phoenix, backed exploring an 18th regular-season game, including Robert Kraft, Carlie Irsay-Gordon and Jerry Jones.
- Robert Kraft said he would support the move only if the preseason is cut to two games, a second bye week is added, and every team plays one international game each year.
- Commissioner Roger Goodell said the change is not a given and must be negotiated with the NFL Players Association under the current collective bargaining agreement that runs through 2030.
- The NFLPA has said it has no appetite for an 18th game, citing health risks, with players like Bills tackle Dion Dawkins calling for stronger pay and protections as new union chief JC Tretter settles in.
- Owners link an 18-game slate to global growth, with a record nine international games set for 2026, though analysts and some team leaders say any expansion remains several seasons away.