NFL owners remain divided over expanding the regular season to 18 games, with Indianapolis Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon voicing support while others urge caution. The debate emerged at the NFL's annual league meeting in Phoenix, where discussions centered on balancing player safety with revenue growth. The league currently plays 17 regular-season games after expanding from 16 in 2021.

Supporters argue an 18-game schedule could boost international growth, with the NFL planning a record nine overseas games in 2026 including first-time contests in Australia and France. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft emphasized the potential for increased revenue and global expansion, suggesting a second bye week could address player safety concerns. However, the NFL Players Association has publicly opposed the expansion.

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam called the conversation "premature," while Saints coach Kellen Moore highlighted the physical toll of adding games to an already demanding 23-24 game calendar including playoffs. Any schedule change would require reopening the collective bargaining agreement before its 2030 expiration, with owners acknowledging concessions would be necessary to gain player approval.