Orlando, FL – Football fans in Central Florida and around the country have heard whispers for years: Could the NFL regular season expand to 18 games? After the league bumped the schedule up to 17 games in 2021, speculation about another increase has only intensified. But this week, those rumors were addressed head-on. David White, the interim executive director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), told The Associated Press that an 18-game regular season is “not inevitable”—and that no discussions with the league are currently taking place about such a change.
The Current NFL Landscape: 17 Games and Counting
Back in 2021, the NFL made a historic shift by increasing the regular season from 16 to 17 games. This move brought both excitement and controversy. Fans enjoyed more football, but players and union leaders raised concerns about injuries, fatigue, and the long-term health impact of a longer season.
For Orlando’s passionate fan base, including the many who travel to see games in Tampa, Jacksonville, or Miami, the extra week has meant more action—and more opportunities for gatherings at local sports bars and watch parties. Yet, the conversation around expanding the season even further has kept many wondering what comes next for America’s favorite sport.
David White Sets the Record Straight
Speaking with The Associated Press, David White made it clear: “There have been no conversations with the league about expanding the regular season to 18 games.” He went on to emphasize, “It’s not inevitable.” This statement is significant, especially as rumors swirl every offseason about potential changes to the NFL schedule.
White’s comments offer some reassurance to players, coaches, and fans who are concerned about how a longer season could impact the quality of the game and the well-being of athletes. Here in Orlando, where youth and amateur football are major parts of the community, the debate hits home. Coaches, parents, and local players often look to the NFL as a model, and the league’s decisions can have ripple effects on how the game is played at all levels.
What an 18-Game Season Could Mean for Orlando Fans
If the NFL ever does expand to 18 games, the change would certainly affect Orlando’s football scene. More games mean more opportunities for fans to gather, whether it’s for fantasy leagues, sports betting, or simply enjoying another week of NFL action. Local businesses—especially sports bars and restaurants—could see a boost in business during the extended season.
However, there are downsides to consider. Players may face a higher risk of injury, which could impact the quality of play. More games could also mean changes to playoff schedules, impacting how and when fans travel or host events. And for those involved in youth or high school football in Orlando, the NFL’s decisions often shape the calendar for local leagues, from practice schedules to championship games.
Players’ Health Remains a Top Priority
One of the main reasons the NFLPA is hesitant about expanding the season is player safety. The physical toll of an NFL game is immense, with players facing high-impact collisions week after week. After the move to 17 games, many players expressed concerns about the extra wear and tear on their bodies.
For Orlando’s aspiring athletes, this is an important reminder of the risks associated with the sport. The NFLPA has made it clear that any discussions about expanding the season must include serious conversations about player health, safety protocols, and fair compensation. As football remains a popular sport at all levels in Central Florida, these debates are watched closely by families and coaches who want to keep their players safe while enjoying the game they love.
Looking Ahead: Will the NFL Season Expand Again?
For now, the answer seems to be “no.” With David White’s recent remarks, it’s clear that the NFLPA is not pushing for an 18-game regular season—and the league is not currently demanding it either. But as the business of football continues to grow, and as fans’ appetite for more games remains strong, this is a topic that will continue to resurface.
In Orlando, where the NFL has a devoted following and football is part of the cultural fabric, any changes to the league’s schedule will be felt both on and off the field. Whether it’s more opportunities to watch the game, more business for local establishments, or new concerns about player safety, the future of the NFL season is a story that everyone in Central Florida will want to follow closely.
Conclusion: Join the Conversation
What do you think about the possibility of an 18-game NFL season? Would you welcome more football, or are you concerned about the impact on players and the quality of the game? Here at Daily Orlando News, we want to hear from you! Leave a comment below and share your thoughts on how this issue affects you, your family, and Orlando’s vibrant football community.
