Expanding NFL Games to 18: Health and Revenue Debate

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Joe Flacco and Joe Discuss the Impact of an 18-Game NFL Season

During a recent segment on the show, the discussion centered around the NFL's move from 16 to 18 games per season. Joe Flacco has expressed concerns, highlighting that such an increase could negatively impact player health, questioning if expanding to 20 games might be next. In response, Joe emphasized that 18 games are not just "too much" in his view; it's a shift primarily driven by owner's revenue considerations rather than player safety. Moreover, the consistent focus on safety seems undercut by the actual decisions made, as seen in the increased quantity of games.

Joe further elaborated on the logistical challenges of an 18-game schedule. He underscored the lack of available quarterbacks, noting that Philip Rivers, despite retiring five years prior and being 45 years old, was called out of retirement to bolster the Indianapolis Colts' roster. This scenario underscores a broader issue of depleted player rosters in face of injuries and raises questions about the sustainability of such a packed schedule without expanding team rosters for game days to provide adequate cover for injuries.

The conversation also touched on related issues like preseason games, which have been reduced, thereby limiting opportunities for rookie development and necessary evaluations. Joe criticized the reduction in preseason games, which complicates the readiness of new players, especially quarterbacks, who require game time to acclimate to professional levels of play.

Additionally, the idea of adding another bye week was proposed as a possible solution to support player health and safety. However, Joe speculated on how extending the season with additional byes and international games, like the prospective games in Australia and Europe, could further complicate schedules while continuing to stretch the physical limits of the players. The balance between expanding the global appeal of the NFL and ensuring the health of its players remains a controversial aspect of league management.