Aaron Rodgers Critiques NFL’s Schedule Decisions

Aaron Rodgers is never shy about tackling tough topics.

After a narrow victory of 16-10 against the Saints in Paris, he took to the podium to criticize the NFL and its owners, asserting that the 17-game schedule is purely a cash grab.

Rodgers reflected on the 2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement, where the NFL adopted a 17-game, 18-week format. He expressed that this was, in his opinion, a mistake, advocating instead for a 16-game, 18-week schedule that includes two bye weeks per team and an international week for the league as a whole.

“I think it would have been phenomenal for the game,” he remarked during his time in Paris. “Now the owners pushed for 17 games for the extra revenue, all while claiming they care about player safety.”

He went on to explain how a second bye week could contribute to the league’s goal of expanding internationally, which he feels is essential.

“It would be awesome to see them have an international week,” he added. “I think it would be great for the game and its expansion. I wish the league would mandate every team to spend some time in those places, you know, to really absorb the culture. They could engage in community events and outreach stuff. But I have a feeling they won’t, maybe they’re a bit tight on money.”

The Steelers only reached Paris on Friday morning.

Owner Art Rooney II didn’t clarify why they arrived so late, while the Saints had flown to Paris a week earlier.

Steelers’ coach Mike McCarthy echoed Rodgers’ sentiments, saying, “I’d like to be in France for a week. I’ve never been here before, but I think you do what you feel is best to win the game.”

Following their short stay—only two and a half days, not counting the nine-hour flights each way—the Steelers returned to Pittsburgh for their next match against the Browns.