Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Robert Kraft Leads Owners’ Push for 18-Game NFL Season and Mandatory Annual International Games

Adoption depends on NFLPA approval in the next labor deal.

Overview

  • Kraft said owners will seek an 18-game regular season with two preseason games and require every team to play one game overseas each year.
  • He framed the package as a way to grow revenue, raise the salary cap and preserve labor peace, citing the league’s TV dominance and a recent 31 million–viewer Amazon stream.
  • Any schedule expansion must be collectively bargained with the NFL Players Association, and the current CBA runs through 2031.
  • Commissioner Roger Goodell and some owners, including Jerry Jones, have voiced openness to an 18th game and broader international play as the league ramps up overseas scheduling.
  • Recent reporting notes a potential lockout risk at the CBA’s expiration if owners and players cannot agree on terms tied to an 18-game format and expanded international slate.