NFL Owners Discuss Potential 18th Regular Season Game

The 2026 NFL owners meeting is taking place in Phoenix, and a significant topic of discussion is whether to add an 18th regular-season game to the schedule. Two owners, Robert Kraft from the New England Patriots and Karlie Irsay Gordon of the Indianapolis Colts, both seem to support this idea.

However, Kraft has some specific conditions in mind. He mentioned to the media in Phoenix his preference for a two-week bye week instead of the usual one. Additionally, there’s the idea of removing one preseason game, limiting it to two per team each season, and making sure every NFL team participates in at least one international game annually.

Irsay Gordon pointed out that with the current 17-game schedule, not all teams end up with the same number of home games, which seems unfair. She’s also on board with Kraft’s suggestion to shorten the preseason.

In a recent interview, Bills star Dion Dawkins noted potential issues with a longer season, emphasizing that player careers could be impacted. He added the NFL commissioner has mentioned that the preseason isn’t the best for fan engagement.

While owners like Kraft and Irsay Gordon are optimistic about the potential change, the NFL Players Association has voiced concerns and stated they “have no desire” to expand to an 18-game schedule.

Negotiations may be in progress not only regarding the additional game but also over new media rights deals. Some reports suggest that, while Commissioner Roger Goodell has said an 18th game is not guaranteed, there is significant support from many owners for this move as early as the 2027 season.

Dawkins, speaking with FOX News Digital, conveyed a sense of inevitability regarding the additional game but expressed concern about how players would be compensated if it goes through. He highlighted the varying levels of player contracts, mentioning that everyone, from superstars to those just getting by, need to be treated fairly as changes unfold.

“As long as the players are taken care of the way they should be taken care of, this is our life,” he stated. “An 18th game is likely coming. What will it look like in the future? Maybe we’ll be talking about a 19th or even a 20th game.”