NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell brushed off concerns from San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan regarding the team’s upcoming game in Australia for Week 1. The 49ers are set to face the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne in 2026, but Shanahan expressed to reporters at a league owners’ meeting that he didn’t see any real advantage to the move. He even joked about playing a game located 19 to 20 hours away from home right at the start of the season.
Goodell mentioned that he would be sending Shanahan an app to help with any potential jet lag. In Australia, he remarked, “I’m feeling great. I’m not feeling jet lag at all. I think it’s been a relatively easy trip.” He acknowledged Shanahan’s dedication as a coach, emphasizing that winning games is always the priority but also noted the importance of expanding the NFL’s global reach. He advised not to let the international obligations interfere with the focus on the games.
Goodell assured that the matchup in Australia isn’t just a one-off; rather, it reflects a commitment to investing in that market. “We’re here for the long term. This is not a circus; it’s an investment for the future,” he stated, indicating plans for more games in Australia to promote the sport.
Despite potential discomfort from the travel, Shanahan did appreciate the idea of showcasing the NFL internationally, even if he doesn’t see much benefit in the immediate aftermath. “There are no pros,” he commented about the challenges of overseas games. “It’s great for the league to play around the world… But while the teams are doing it, there’s not much benefit.” He noted that having a bye week afterward would soften the blow, but that’s not possible at the start of the season.
