Cowboys owner Jerry Jones updates timeline for NFL's 18-game schedule, floats preseason reduction
Jones discusses possible timing
Jones, one of the NFL’s most prominent owners, offered his view Friday on when the league might expand its regular-season schedule. Speaking to Dallas sports radio station 105.3 FM, he said, “I don’t think we’re far away from it.” Jones suggested the change could arrive as soon as 2027, while acknowledging that the timing was uncertain. He said it could happen “next month, next year, maybe.”
Preseason could be reduced
Jones argued that adding a regular-season game could mean cutting back on preseason games. He said teams could be more developed during the early regular season as they work on preparation currently done in the preseason. Jones described the potential change as being in everyone’s interest, including players’ interests, in his view.
Player approval remains necessary
The NFL Players Association would also have to approve a plan before it could proceed. The reporting says there is no indication that talks are underway, while the union is prioritizing player health and safety.
Key points
- Jerry Jones said the NFL may be close to adding an 18th regular-season game.
- Jones floated 2027 as a possible start for an expanded schedule.
- He said a longer season could bring fewer preseason games.
- The NFLPA must approve any change, and negotiations are required.