The Chicago Bears are working to navigate a constantly shifting NFL landscape as new rules and rule changes are implemented every year. It is a non-stop challenge for the executives and coaches to help prepare players for the adjustments. One of the biggest that many fear is the lengthening of the schedule. From 1978 to 2020, the league had gone with a 16-game slate every year. However, it appears owners are hunting for more revenue, and the only way to do that is by adding more games to the schedule. So, in 2021 they implemented a 17-game schedule. However, Adam Schefter of ESPN confirmed that is not the end game.
He stated on The Pat McAfee Show that the widespread desire is moving to an 18-game schedule. Players do not like the idea. Seasons are already grueling enough, and more games only mean more wear and tear on their bodies. However, the owners appear dead set on making it happen.
The only way this idea gets off the ground is if the players get more time to rest. That only happens if teams get an extra bye week. While it lengthens the NFL schedule, it at least helps to protect the players from nagging injuries.
If Schefter says it’s going to happen, you can pretty much take it to the bank. The only question is when. Based on the growing smoke, it is a safe assumption that it will be sooner than later. Much of it depends on how much resistance the NFL Players Association is ready to put up against whatever proposal the league puts forth. Their leadership hasn’t been known for taking strong stances over the past several years, but this might be a hill worth dying given the added risks everybody will be taking.
It will be interesting to see where the Chicago Bears stand on this. They have no shortage of outspoken players like Jaquan Brisker and Jaylon Johnson. One can safely assume they’ll voice their opinions to the player leadership whenever the subject of a shift to 18 games finally gets serious. Here is hoping head coach Matt Eberflus and GM Ryan Poles are smart enough to at least put the knowledge in the backs of everybody’s mind. One thing is for sure. Team depth will be more vital than ever.
