The High Cost of More Football: Balancing Revenue and Athlete Health
As the NFL continues to evolve, a growing tension has emerged between the league’s financial ambitions and the physical limits of its athletes. Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco, now 41 and entering his 19th NFL season, has raised a critical question: at what point does the pursuit of more games commence to diminish the quality of the sport?
With 209 career games under his belt, Flacco has experienced the league’s transition from a 16-game schedule to the current 17-game format. His concerns center on the “slippery slope” of scheduling, where the drive for increased revenue could push the regular season toward 18, 20, or even 22 games.
The “Slippery Slope” of the NFL Calendar
From 14 to 18 and Beyond
The history of the NFL is one of gradual expansion. Flacco notes that the league used to play 14 games before he was born. The shift to 16 games created a formula that many, including Flacco, believe was “super competitive” and ideal for the players’ longevity.
However, the momentum is moving toward further expansion. The concern is that once the league moves to an 18-game regular season, the appetite for more content and more revenue will not stop there. This trend suggests a future where the regular season continues to grow, potentially compromising the physical integrity of the players.
For a veteran like Flacco—who has managed to maintain a 60.3% completion rate across 10 starts in 2025—the wear and tear of nearly two decades in the league makes these additions sense more significant than they might to a rookie.
Why the Playoffs Could Suffer in an Expanded Season
The “75 Percent” Problem
One of the most pressing concerns regarding a longer season is the impact on the postseason. The playoffs are intended to be the pinnacle of professional football, featuring the highest level of competition. However, Flacco argues that an expanded regular season could lead to a decline in the quality of these games.
When teams are pushed through an 18-game schedule, they enter the playoffs “beat up.” Instead of seeing elite athletes at their peak, fans may witness teams competing at “75 percent” of their actual capability. This degradation of the “product on the field” could eventually alienate viewers who tune in for top-level football.
You can read more about player perspectives on the current NFL landscape to see how veterans view their roles in the modern game.
The Financial Trade-off: Salary Cap vs. Physical Toll
Despite the physical risks, there is a powerful economic incentive for players to accept longer seasons. More games inevitably lead to higher revenue for the league, which in turn increases the salary cap.
Flacco acknowledges that players will likely go along with these changes because “over time you are going to be making more money.” This creates a complex dilemma where athletes must weigh their long-term health against immediate financial gain.
This economic reality is evident in the market for veteran backups. Flacco recently agreed to a one-year, $6 million deal with the Bengals, with an additional $3 million available in incentives. For many players, the ability to secure these contracts justifies the physical cost of an extended season.
For further insights, explore our guide on how the NFL salary cap influences roster construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a longer NFL season affect the quality of play?
According to Joe Flacco, yes. He believes that an 18-game season leaves players too exhausted and injured by the time the playoffs arrive, resulting in “75 percent” football rather than top-level competition.
Why would players agree to play more games?
The primary driver is financial. An increase in the number of games raises league revenue, which increases the salary cap and allows players to earn more money over their careers.
What was the previous “ideal” NFL season length?
Many veterans, including Flacco, point to the 16-game regular season paired with four rounds of playoffs as the most competitive and sustainable formula for the league.
What do you think? Should the NFL stop at 17 games, or is the increase in revenue worth the risk to player health and the quality of the playoffs? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into the business of football!
