In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, the discussion around expanding the regular season to 18 games is heating up. JC Tretter, the executive director of the NFL Players Association, recently highlighted that the union isn't quite ready to engage in talks with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and team owners about this potential shift. However, the writing seems to be on the wall.
Buffalo Bills veteran offensive tackle Dion Dawkins, who's been in the league since 2017, shared his perspective on this development. In a conversation with Scott Thompson of Fox News Digital, Dawkins acknowledged the inevitability of adding an 18th game to the NFL calendar.
He pointed out, "We're part of a world where people want more football. The 18th game is a beautiful business choice for the league."
The current collective bargaining agreement, which runs through the 2030 season, requires the NFLPA's consent for any regular-season expansion. This opens the door for negotiations where the union could seek increased revenue shares, an additional bye week, or changes to offseason schedules in exchange for agreeing to the proposal.
While Tretter indicated that no immediate agreement is on the horizon, the fact that the NFL hasn't set a date for Super Bowl LXII in 2028 suggests the league's eagerness to implement the 18-game format sooner rather than later.
Dawkins also raised concerns about the impact on players' careers. "The only counter is that guys' careers are getting shorter," he noted.
"One game might not drastically shorten a career, but it can change someone's life trajectory. Surviving a 17-game season and facing an 18th when your body is on the brink could alter everything."
Despite these concerns, Dawkins concedes that the transition to an 18-game season seems inevitable. As the NFL navigates this potential change, the balance between business interests and player welfare will be crucial.