As the NFL’s Annual Meeting begins in Phoenix, the league faces growing tensions between owners and players over a potential shift to an 18-game regular season amid rising costs and a $301 million salary cap. Although the Collective Bargaining Agreement extends until 2031, owners are eager for more games to increase revenue, while players worry about the implications for their health and income. Former player Jason McCourty highlights the challenge of unifying players’ diverse perspectives on the issue. Mike Florio suggests that owners may pressure the NFLPA to accept an 18-game season quickly, emphasizing the imbalance of power in negotiations.
