The NFL moved from a 16-game regular season to 17 games in 2021. Since then, speculation has continued over whether the league will add an 18th game.
Making that change would mean negotiating issues such as roster sizes, player pay, the preseason and when the Super Bowl is played. The players’ union would also need to agree.
Jerry Jones, the Dallas Cowboys owner known for speaking his mind, said Friday that an expanded schedule may not be far off. He told Dallas sports radio station 105.3 FM that the league could potentially make the move as soon as 2027.
Jones said the timing was uncertain, but added that a change could happen next year. Any plan, he noted, would have to be negotiated with players. He also argued that expanding the regular season could benefit everyone involved.
The possibility has gained attention as the NFL grows in popularity and adds more international games. A record nine games are being played outside the United States this season, and the league has approved a 10-game international schedule for 2027.
Commissioner Roger Goodell has supported efforts by some owners to move to an 18-game season. Jones said teams could play fewer preseason games and use the opening weeks of the regular season to get players ready.
The players’ union has been more cautious. In March, NFLPA executive director JC Tretter said the union was focused on protecting players’ health. He noted that the current collective bargaining agreement sets the regular season at 17 games and limits the league to 10 international games.
Tretter, a former offensive lineman who played eight NFL seasons, said he understands the physical demands of moving from a 16-game schedule to a 17-game one. He also described the strain of international travel, including the challenge of recovering from a long flight and preparing for the following game.
The Washington Commanders opened Week 10 of the 2026 season against the New York Giants, winning 24-21.
