NFL Players Union Interim Leader: No Interest in 18-Game Season

Union says focus should remain on improving natural grass playing surfaces

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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The interim leader of the NFL Players Association has stated that there is no interest among players in expanding the regular season to 18 games. Instead, the focus should remain on continuing to improve the quality of natural grass playing surfaces across the league.

Why it matters

The push for an 18-game regular season has been a point of contention between the league and players' union for years, with players concerned about the increased injury risk. This statement from the interim union leader suggests the players remain firmly opposed to any expansion of the regular season schedule.

The details

The comments came from the NFL Players Association's interim executive director, who said the priority should be on maintaining high-quality natural grass fields rather than adding more games to the schedule. Many players have voiced concerns about the physical toll of an 18-game season, arguing it would lead to more injuries and reduced player safety.

  • The statement was made on February 4, 2026.

The players

NFL Players Association

The labor union that represents professional football players in the National Football League.

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What they’re saying

“No hay que añadir todavía un partido a la temporada regular de la NFL. En cambio, hay que seguir avanzando con las superficies bien cuidadas de césped natural.”

— NFL Players Association Interim Executive Director (nhregister.com)

The takeaway

The NFL Players Association remains firmly opposed to expanding the regular season to 18 games, prioritizing player safety and the continued improvement of natural grass playing surfaces over any schedule changes that could increase injury risk.