In a move that has been anticipated for years, the NFL could be inching closer to expanding the regular season to 18 games. According to a source familiar with the situation, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) is already preparing for the change. The question now lies in whether and to what extent the players are in favor of it.

While some veteran players have expressed concerns over adding to their workload, there appears to be a consensus among younger players who are open to the idea. The NFLPA will need to carefully consider the preferences of all its members as it navigates this potential shift.

The conversation surrounding an 18-game season gained traction in late April when comments made by NFL Commissioner sparked further discussions. However, the topic had already resurfaced earlier in the year when Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry proposed a two-week delay in the trade deadline in anticipation of the additional regular-season game.

Jaylen Reeves-Maybin, the newly elected union president, hinted at the possibility of an extended season, stating that when the time comes, they will address it. Now, it seems that the time is drawing nearer.

Various players have weighed in on the matter, reflecting a range of opinions. Colts center Ryan Kelly has spoken against the expansion, citing concerns over increased workload. On the other hand, Steelers safety Damontae Kazee sees the potential for more games as an opportunity to provide for their families.

Undoubtedly, an extended regular season would result in more revenue for both the league and the players. However, the NFLPA faces the challenge of leveraging this change to achieve more than just an expansion of their fair share.

The current reality is that reaching a consensus on this matter would likely require an unfair fight. While the owners are reportedly willing to halt football for an entire season to achieve their goals, the players are not. This power imbalance suggests that the union may ultimately have to concede to the league's plans.

The big question now is whether the league can persuade the union to accept the inevitable before the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) expires in 2030. It remains to be seen what the league can offer the players to secure their support.

Ideally, the league would implement the 18-game season starting in 2030, coinciding with the new broadcast contracts. By terminating the existing TV deals before their expiration, the league would have the opportunity to include an additional 16 regular-season games in the next round of billion-dollar agreements.

It appears that the NFL's move towards an 18-game season is imminent. While many players welcome the prospect of an extra game check, the NFLPA will continue to navigate this decision, striving to achieve favorable terms for its members.