The NFL Wants an 18 Game Schedule

Let's face it: the preseason games suck. No one wants to pay good money on a game that essentially means nothing. The only thing that Preseason football does is evaluate the questionable players and the rookies to see how to use them. The NFL knows this and is thinking about expanding the regular season by two games and cutting 2 preseason games. Owners want this new 18 game schedule by 2012. Meanwhile, the NFLPA doesn't want 18 games citing that it will be to costly to players health.

I side with the Union on this issue. 16 games is already grueling enough on some players, especially the linemen. While it is still essentially 20 games overall, there are two more competitive games that players are being worn out on. This expansion will shorten long careers and may lead to more injuries during the season. I like current 16 game schedule and wish it would stay.

However, there seems to be too much momentum to stop an eventual 18 game season. So when the owners do push this through, I hope the players get a bigger cut of the money and benefits.

P.S. Yes, I would support a lockout if it meant better player benefits. The fans need to understand that this is not just for the outspoken stars but the grunt players of the league and the back ups as well. The media just shows the millionaires, not billionaires.