Patriots owner confirms plans for 18-game NFL: “We’re going to push”

The NFL is preparing for one of the most ambitious transformations in its recent history.

In an era where business and globalization dictate every step, the league’s owners are putting forward a proposal that could redefine the schedule and the international presence of what is already one of the most dominant television products in world sport.

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft sparked controversy on Tuesday during an appearance on The Sports Hub radio show. Kraft confirmed that the NFL is officially considering a regular season expansion from 17 to 18 games, and is furthering its international game program.

“I want to tell you guys that we’re going to push like the dickens now to make international [games] more important with us,” Kraft said. “Every team will go to 18 [regular-season games] and two [preseason games] and eliminate one of the preseason games, and every team every year will play one game overseas.”

“Part of the reason is so we can continue to grow the cap and keep our labor happy, because we’re sort of getting near the top here,” Kraft continued.

“You know, with the coverage, 93 of the top 100 programs on television, our NFL games, think about that. It’s really amazing. And you look at the size of our crowds versus the other sports. We had that Amazon [playoff] game... 31 million people streamed in.”

But for all Kraft’s optimism, it will not be a unilateral decision. Any modification to the schedule must first go through the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and, later, a vote by the team owners.

In the past the NFLPA has shown skepticism and resistance to the idea of more games. The association cites legitimate concerns about the safety and well-being of the players.

For sports fans, the debate is open. Does more games mean more excitement or burnout for the stars who make the league great? Can a greater global presence translate into a more valuable product for everyone involved, from sponsors to casual fans?

The NFL, with its massive marketing and television machine, is in a hurry to find that answer. But like any big move, this one would come with risks.

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