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The idea of an extended, 18-game NFL schedule has been floated around the league in recent years, but when queried about the possibility, Denver Broncos head coach Vic Fangio expressed doubt in the move.
Via Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic on Twitter:
“Yeah, I don’t think the schedule should move anywhere to 18. I don’t think that will happen, but what do I know? But I don’t think it would be a wise move.”
Fangio, 60, is entering his first season as the top guy manning the sidelines for the Broncos. Before being hired by Denver's front office, Fangio was the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers in 2011-14 and Chicago Bears in 2015-18. Fangio replaced Vance Joseph, who coached the Mile High City team for two seasons and was let go on December 31, 2018.
The NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement between the players union and owners will expire following the 2020 season and many believe the league's owners will push for an 18-game schedule as a major negotiation tactic in the next contract.
In response, players have pushed back on the notion that the regular season could be extended two more games, stating the harm to the physical well-being and competitiveness by making a longer season.
The NFL is already one of, if not, the most physically taxing sports on the planet, and adding two more games could be incredibly detrimental towards players' long-term health.
On the other hand, owners have pushed for the extended schedule due to raising revenue in the league with added tickets sold for the games, a richer broadcast contract with networks, and potentially longer interest in the league.
