Poll: Should the NFL Expand to 18-Game Season?

[Editor's note: Welcome to Athlon Sports' poll of the day, where we ask readers to weigh in on the biggest topic of the day. Thanks for voting, and be sure to sound off in the comment section.]

It feels like it's just a matter of time before the NFL expands to an 18-game regular season. The league expanded to 16 games in 1978 and then added a 17th game in 2021. The NFL Players Association had opposed the 17-game season for years, citing the added injury risks. But of course, 16 extra games meant more money, which the league shared with its players. With more money on the table, it's doubtful the NFLPA will put up much resistance to the 18-game plan.

In his column for Athlon Sports today, Andrew Perloff cites eight reasons why an 18-game schedule would be a bad idea - and he's got bigger concerns than the added injury risk. Generally speaking, Perloff believes an extra week of games - which might also bring two more playoff teams - is going to dilute the overall product.

What do you think?

Thanks for voting. Be sure to make your voice heard and sound off in the comments section.

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This story was originally published May 8, 2026 at 4:15 AM.