NFLPA Exec Howell: Players Oppose Expanding Season to 18 Games

NFL Players Association (NFLPA) executive director Lloyd Howell has firmly stated that players do not support an expansion of the regular season to 18 games, despite NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's recent comments suggesting it could be a possibility. Howell emphasized that no formal discussions have taken place, and the players' sentiment remains clear: 'No one wants to play an 18th game.' The NFLPA expects to negotiate several significant concessions if any discussions about increasing the game count were to occur, including additional bye weeks, roster size adjustments, and improved player safety measures. Players are still feeling the physical toll from the current 17-game schedule, which was introduced in 2021. Howell noted that the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) restricts changes to the season length until its expiration in 2030. Overall, the NFLPA is not ready to engage in discussions about extending the season until various player welfare concerns are addressed.