New England Patriots center David Andrews recently pushed back on NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s suggestion that the league doesn’t need the preseason. Goodell had discussed the possibility of adding an 18th game to the regular season, which would eliminate a preseason game. Andrews disagreed with this sentiment, pointing out that many young players and undrafted individuals rely on the preseason to develop and prove themselves. He emphasized that while Goodell may not see the value in preseason games, they are crucial for players who are trying to earn a spot on the team.
Goodell’s idea of adding an 18th regular-season game was brought up before the 2024 draft. He suggested that this change could potentially push the Super Bowl to Presidents’ Day weekend, creating a longer weekend for fans to enjoy the game. While Goodell expressed a preference for replacing preseason games with additional regular-season games, no concrete steps have been taken to move from a 17-game schedule to 18 games. Any modifications to the NFL schedule would need to be negotiated with the NFL Players Association, indicating that there are still hurdles to clear before such changes could be implemented.
Andrews’ comments highlight the differing perspectives within the NFL community regarding the value of preseason games. While veterans like Goodell may not see the necessity of these games, younger players and undrafted individuals often rely on them to showcase their skills and earn a spot on the roster. The debate over the preseason’s usefulness is ongoing, with arguments being made on both sides of the issue. As discussions around the NFL schedule continue, it remains to be seen how the league will address the potential changes that Goodell has suggested.
The NFL offseason is a time of speculation and planning for the upcoming season, with various proposals and ideas being floated by league officials. Goodell’s suggestion of adding an 18th game to the regular season is one such proposal that has sparked discussion among players and fans alike. While the idea of extending the regular season may have its benefits, it also raises questions about the impact on player health and safety, as well as the overall structure of the league. These considerations will likely factor into any decisions made about altering the NFL schedule in the future.
The debate over the preseason and the potential expansion of the regular season reflects broader conversations within the NFL about the balance between player welfare and maximizing revenue. While Goodell’s proposal may be motivated by a desire to enhance the fan experience and generate more revenue for the league, players like Andrews are advocating for the importance of preseason games in player development. Finding a balance between these competing interests will be crucial for the NFL as it continues to evolve and grow. Ultimately, any changes to the NFL schedule will need to be carefully considered in order to ensure that they benefit all stakeholders involved.
As discussions around the NFL schedule continue, it is clear that there are diverse perspectives within the football community about the value of preseason games and the potential for expanding the regular season. Players like David Andrews are raising important points about the role of preseason games in player development and roster decision-making, highlighting the impact that changes to the schedule could have on individuals at different stages of their careers. As the NFL navigates these debates and negotiations with the players’ union, it will be important to consider the implications of any proposed changes for all parties involved.
