NFL commissioner Roger Goodell seems to finally be in agreement with a large number of fans, players, analysts, coaches, and anyone with an interest in NFL football, that 4 preseason games are a bit much.
Goodell spoke on Monday that he wanted to reduce the preseason schedule at a time when the league and the NFLPA have begun preliminary discussions on a new CBA, according to ESPN, via the Associated Press.
“I feel what we should be doing is always to the highest quality, and I’m not sure preseason games meet that level right now,” Goodell said, while participating in Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly’s 33rd charity golf tournament outside of Buffalo, New York.
“I’m not sure, talking with coaches, that four preseason games is necessary anymore to get ready for a season to evaluate players, develop players,” he added. “There are other ways of doing that, and we’ve had a lot of discussions about that.”
The NFL has toyed with the idea of trimming the preseason schedule to expand the regular season schedule from 16, to 18 games, but that idea has been met with a lot of kick back, mainly from players and the NFLPA.
Goodell also spoke about a new stadium for the Buffalo Bills to replace their existing facility which was built back in 1973.
The Bills are currently researching a new stadium location.
“I think they’re doing the work and talking about what it takes and what they need because each one of these, there’s no secret sauce,” Goodell said.
“What works in Dallas doesn’t work in Buffalo necessarily,” he added. “The reason why I’m supportive is I want to make sure this franchise remains stable here, and continues and remains competitive. I think it’s great for this community.”