NFL Owners Back 18-Game Schedule with Conditions

Robert Kraft, Patriots owner, supports adding another game but wants an additional bye week, reducing preseason from three to two games, and requiring each team to play an international game. Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon is in favor if players want it, also seeking preseason reduction while acknowledging its value for team development.

Health concerns for players with an expanded schedule were noted, though no solutions were offered. Some owners support implementation as early as 2027, with negotiations with the NFL Players Association set to begin under new executive director JC Tretter, though one owner noted union leaders need time to prepare.