In a significant move that could reshape the future of the NFL, the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and the NFL have commenced discussions regarding the implementation of an 18-game schedule. NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell confirmed these talks, stating that both entities have recognized the necessity for such discussions before the current collective bargaining agreement expires after the 2030 season.

Howell emphasized that the discussions have been preliminary, but with a firm acknowledgement that the topic merits a deeper exploration. "We have talked at a very high level superficially, with a recognition... about, 'Yeah, this is something that we should be talking about. And we should really kick the tires and understand what else goes into that decision-making process.'" Howell said.

However, Howell urged caution and stressed that several important factors must be addressed before an 18-game schedule can be implemented. The foremost concern is determining where the additional game would come from. While the assumption is that it would be taken from preseason games in August, Howell noted that the details needed to be ironed out. "But these are details that really need to be fleshed out. But, again, there are other economic, health and safety matters that also need to be clear to our members before there's ever an agreement about an 18th game," he explained.

The recent comments by Howell come after NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed his support for an 18-game schedule earlier this year. Goodell also proposed that a longer season would culminate with the Super Bowl taking place on the Sunday night of President's Day weekend.

This recent development indicates that the possibility of an 18-game schedule is swiftly moving forward. However, with both economic and health concerns to address, it remains to be seen how quickly a consensus can be reached between the NFLPA and the NFL. The next few years will undoubtedly be crucial in determining the fate of the NFL's regular season structure.