In a recent statement, Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly expressed strong opposition to the idea of expanding the NFL regular season to 18 games. Kelly, who is a vice president on the executive committee of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), made it clear that he believes adding more games would be detrimental to players' well-being.

Kelly's comments came after NFL commissioner Roger Goodell discussed the possibility of expanding the regular season during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" in April. While Goodell spoke positively about the idea, Kelly emphasized that the reality of playing 18 games is far from glamorous.

"Eighteen games sounds great when Roger's saying it on Pat McAfee," said Kelly. "But until you're the one that's going out there and putting the helmet on for 18 of those games, then come talk to me."

The NFLPA, which reluctantly agreed to the expansion from 16 to 17 games in 2021, is expected to resist any further lengthening of the regular season. The current collective bargaining agreement between the players and owners is in place until the 2030 season, but it can be amended or renegotiated.

Kelly pointed out the physical toll that playing 16 games already takes on players and questioned the removal of preseason games, which primarily benefit undrafted or late-round players trying to prove themselves.

Kelly also addressed the NFLPA's proposal to eliminate offseason workouts and replace them with an earlier report date ahead of training camp. The union believes that the current structure restricts players' ability to control their own offseason periods and wants to implement a ramp-up period leading into training camp.

"We come here for three months, we throw, we do all these things, and then we don't see each other for two months," Kelly said. "Is that the best and most effective way to train and to get the most out of it?"

The discussions surrounding both the proposed 18-game season and changes to offseason workouts are still in their early stages, with no clear trajectory toward a solution.

While the move to a 17-game regular season was controversial among players during the most recent CBA negotiations, with only 51.5% voting in favor, it remains to be seen how the union will respond to the potential for further expansion. Kelly's strong opposition reflects the concerns shared by many players who believe that the physical demands of the game already take a toll on their health and well-being.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the NFL and NFLPA will navigate these issues and find a resolution that satisfies both sides.