NFLPA Interim Chief: Players Reject 18th NFL Game Expansion

In a clear stance against expanding the NFL regular season, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) leadership emphasized that players are not in favor of adding an 18th game. During a news conference ahead of the Super Bowl, interim executive director David White stated that players prioritize health and safety over potential expansion.

NFLPA’s Firm Position on the 18th Game

David White voiced that the players have “no appetite” for the proposed additional game. He noted the issue is not a casual topic for players and highlighted that any discussions about an expanded schedule must first come through negotiations. “It’s a very serious issue. It’s something that comes out of negotiations,” White said.

Concerns About Player Health

Both White and NFLPA president Jalen Reeves-Maybin expressed worries about the increased risk of injuries that may result from a longer season. They cited recent significant injuries among players, including:

• Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs) – ACL injury in Week 15
• Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts) – ACL injury in Week 16
• Quinshon Judkins (Cleveland Browns) – season-ending injury in Week 16
• Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) – back injury in Week 16

White emphasized that injuries not only affect player health but can also diminish their future earnings and shorten their careers. With the average NFL career lasting only three to four years, the potential impact of an extra game is significant.

International Games and Player Safety

While discussing the potential for international games, White raised concerns about inconsistencies in team travel arrangements. The NFL has announced nine international games for 2026 across various countries, including Australia, France, and Mexico. White remarked, “It’s a seemingly arbitrary approach that clubs take to travel,” highlighting the need for better coordination.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has expressed ambitions for expanding the international slate to 16 games in the future, emphasizing the league’s desire to reach global fans.

Field Conditions and Injury Rates

The topic of playing surface also came up during the discussions, with 90% of players expressing a preference for natural grass over artificial turf. White noted that the energy return on synthetic fields can be higher, potentially leading to greater strain on players’ bodies. He underscored the importance of maintaining high-quality playing surfaces to ensure player safety.

As discussions regarding the structure of the NFL continue, player health and safety are clearly at the forefront of the NFLPA’s agenda. The union’s recent statements reaffirm their commitment to protecting the well-being of players amid ongoing negotiations about the league’s future direction.