NFL Considers 18-Game Regular Season for 2027

League may move Super Bowl LXII to accommodate expanded schedule

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to a report from NFL insider Mike Florio, the NFL is exploring the possibility of expanding the regular season to 18 games starting in 2027. This move would require approval from the NFL Players Association, which has previously expressed reluctance to add an extra game. However, the league may be willing to offer concessions such as an increased revenue share, expanded rosters, and a second bye week to gain the union's support.

Why it matters

Expanding the regular season to 18 games has long been a goal for NFL owners, who believe it will generate additional revenue. However, players have been resistant due to concerns over increased injury risk and workload. This potential move represents the latest development in the ongoing negotiations between the league and the union over the future of the NFL calendar.

The details

The report suggests the NFL's plans to move Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta to February 20, 2027 are tied to the possibility of an 18-game regular season. With 17 games, the Super Bowl would likely be played on February 13, but an 18-game schedule would push it back a week. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA interim executive director David White have both previously indicated that a deal for an 18-game season is not imminent, but the league may be willing to make concessions to the players to gain their approval.

  • The current NFL collective bargaining agreement expires in 2031.
  • Super Bowl LXII is currently scheduled for February 2027.

The players

Roger Goodell

NFL Commissioner

David White

NFLPA interim executive director

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Getting to a format of 18 regular-season games and two preseason contests per campaign is 'not something we assume will happen.'”

— Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner (Pro Football Talk)

“Players have 'no appetite' to add an 18th regular-season game to the calendar.”

— David White, NFLPA interim executive director (Pro Football Talk)

What’s next

The NFL and NFLPA will need to negotiate the details of any potential 18-game regular season, including concessions to the players such as an increased revenue share, expanded rosters, and a second bye week. The league will also need to determine the timing of the 2027 season and Super Bowl LXII.

The takeaway

The potential expansion to an 18-game regular season represents the latest chapter in the ongoing power struggle between the NFL and its players' union. While owners are eager to generate additional revenue, players remain concerned about the increased injury risk and workload. Any deal will likely require significant concessions from the league to gain the NFLPA's approval.