NFLPA Opposes Proposed 18-Game Regular Season Expansion
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has firmly opposed NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s proposal to expand the regular season to 18 games. Goodell suggested the expansion, citing advancements in player safety and training. However, NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell Jr. responded that players are not interested in adding another game, noting that the current 17-game season already extends into the next season due to injuries. Any changes would require formal negotiations, as the current collective bargaining agreement expires after the 2030 season. Howell raised concerns about roster sizes, practice squad sizes, bye weeks, the length of the offseason, and the number of international games. Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler, also an NFLPA vice-president, expressed strong opposition, emphasizing safer ways to increase revenue. Goodell acknowledged the possibility of the 18-game season amid broader CBA discussions, but Howell emphasized the need for further scheduling improvements and valid considerations before any formal negotiations take place.
Referees Under Scrutiny Ahead of Super Bowl 2025
As Super Bowl 2025 approaches, officiating has become a focal point, with allegations of favoritism towards the Kansas City Chiefs. Statistics indicate that the Chiefs receive fewer penalties than their opponents, fueling suspicions of favorable treatment. NFL officials and the league dismiss these claims as myths, attributing them to fan passion amplified by social media. Despite denials, questionable calls in the upcoming game could intensify the controversy. The NFL hopes the officiating remains inconspicuous, keeping the spotlight on the players.
Josh Allen Named NFL MVP, Credits Fiancée Hailee Steinfeld
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player for the season. In a close vote, Allen secured 383 points, edging out Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens, who garnered 362 points. Allen expressed gratitude to his fiancée, actress Hailee Steinfeld, for her support. The couple has been together since May 2023 and got engaged in November. Despite Allen’s outstanding performance, the Bills narrowly missed the Super Bowl, falling to the Kansas City Chiefs in the semifinals. Throughout the season, Allen threw 28 touchdowns and only six interceptions in 17 games, adding 12 rushing touchdowns.
Debate Over Eagles’ ‘Tush Push’ Play Intensifies Ahead of Super Bowl
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is preparing to counter the Philadelphia Eagles’ effective and controversial ‘Tush Push’ play in the upcoming Super Bowl. This play involves pushing the quarterback from behind to gain short yardage, leveraging the Eagles’ strong offensive line. The Eagles have used the ‘Tush Push’ with a success rate of up to 92.6%. Spagnuolo plans to avoid situations that allow for the play and utilize strong defensive strategies. Meanwhile, Green Bay Packers president Mark Murphy has called for the play to be banned, arguing that it involves no skill and nearly guarantees a first down. As the debate continues, Spagnuolo aims to develop a strategy to mitigate its effectiveness in the
Super Bowl.
