While it seems inevitable that we’ll soon be heading towards an 18-game NFL schedule, there’s another significant change to the league’s calendar that may also be happening.
According to reports, the NFL Players Association is already eyeing significant changes for next year.
In a move that would reshape the traditional NFL calendar, the NFLPA is formulating a proposal aimed at eliminating voluntary spring workouts and organized team activities beginning in 2025.
The proposed plan would scrap the current model of offseason workouts, replacing it with a longer training camp ramp-up.
Under this proposal, players would report for training camp in mid-June to early July, kicking off an extended period of strength and conditioning, as well as non-padded work.
This approach would seamlessly transition into traditional training camp activities without the typical six-week break or de-escalation period.
Currently, NFL teams are permitted to commence offseason workout programs in April, before hosting rookie minicamps in May.
Voluntary OTAs and mandatory minicamps typically follow in June, with training camps starting in late July ahead of the preseason.
According to reports, a majority of NFL players support the proposed changes put forth by the NFLPA.
The initiative aims to reduce injuries and provide players with more recovery time following the grueling NFL season.
In place of on-field workouts in the spring, virtual meetings would play a more prominent role in player preparation.
While the NFLPA plans to submit a formal proposal to NFL owners this summer, any official changes to the offseason schedule would require approval through the collective bargaining agreement between the NFLPA and the league.
The proposed overhaul comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding the potential expansion of the NFL regular season to 18 games.
Although Commissioner Roger Goodell has not provided a specific timeline for such a change, he has consistently expressed openness to the idea of expanding the schedule in the future.
What are your thoughts on the NFLPA’s planned proposal?
Would you be in favor of it? … Or do you think the quality of preparation and play would suffer under than plan? (Not to mention the increased likelihood of injuries.)
What about the regular season (ultimately) expanding to 18 games – Do you think that’s the right move?
(Speaking of the NFLPA, they just recently had their popular “Rookie Premiere” which, as always, provided plenty of entertainment…)