Despite some skepticism about the NFL’s commitment to an 18-game schedule and international expansion, Patriots owner Robert Kraft has clarified the league’s intentions.
In a discussion with Boston’s 98.5 sports hub, Kraft expressed not only his support for the 18-game season but also shared the league’s ambition to broaden its global reach.
“We’re aiming to enhance our international presence significantly,” Kraft stated. “Each team will play 18 games, dropping one preseason match. Additionally, every team will have a game abroad each year. This is partly to help us boost the salary cap and keep the players satisfied.”
However, the players are not exactly enthusiastic about this shift to an 18-game format. Owners present the new schedule as merely a switch of preseason games to regular ones, while most observers see a stark contrast in the physical and mental demands of the two types of games.
With that in mind, the league needs to incentivize players by raising the salary cap and providing them with more financial benefits.
The challenge for the NFL, though, is that it’s already nearing its maximum revenue potential in the domestic market.
Kraft elaborated, “We’re approaching the ceiling in terms of coverage. Ninety-three of the top 100 TV programs are NFL games. That’s incredible. Just recently, 31 million people streamed an Amazon game on Thursday. So, as long as we can keep generating revenue, we can ensure long-term satisfaction among players.”
The drive for a larger international audience is closely connected to the league’s need to maintain harmony with players. Increased income from overseas ticket sales, merchandise, and viewership can help raise the salary cap and secure the NFL Players Association’s (NFLPA) approval for a broader schedule.
That said, an 18-game season is not a done deal yet. Negotiations with the players are still needed. However, the NFL has laid out a strategy to enhance revenue, and it seems like everyone will feel some impact.
