Title: Is an 18-Game NFL Season on the Horizon? An Update on July 24
The National Football League (NFL) is no stranger to change. Over the years, the league has evolved in numerous ways, from rule changes to team expansions. However, one of the most significant changes that could be on the horizon is an expansion of the regular season from 16 to 18 games.
The idea of an 18-game season has been a topic of discussion for several years now. The NFL and its owners have been pushing for this change, citing potential increases in revenue from additional television contracts and ticket sales. However, the proposal has faced significant opposition, particularly from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), who have expressed concerns about the increased risk of injuries and the toll an extended season could take on players’ bodies.
As of July 24, there is still no definitive answer as to whether an 18-game season will be implemented in the near future. However, there have been some developments that could potentially bring us closer to this change.
In March 2020, NFL players narrowly approved a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that included a provision to expand the regular season from 16 to 17 games starting as early as the 2021 season. While this is not quite the 18-game season that has been discussed, it does represent a step in that direction.
The approval of a 17-game season was met with mixed reactions. Some players were in favor of the change, seeing it as an opportunity for increased earnings. Others, however, were opposed, citing concerns about player safety and the quality of the game.
In addition to the potential for a longer regular season, the new CBA also includes provisions for expanded playoffs. Starting with the 2020 season, seven teams from each conference will make the playoffs, up from six in previous years. This change will result in an additional two playoff games, further increasing the potential for player injuries.
While the NFL and its owners may be in favor of an 18-game season, it’s clear that there are still many hurdles to overcome. The NFLPA has been vocal in its opposition to a longer season, and any change would likely require significant concessions from the league in terms of player safety and compensation.
In conclusion, while the prospect of an 18-game NFL season is certainly intriguing, it remains a contentious issue. As of July 24, the possibility of such a change seems to be on the horizon, but it is far from a done deal. The debate over the potential benefits and drawbacks will likely continue for some time, and it will be interesting to see how this situation develops in the coming months and years.