NFL considering maximum allowable number of international games next season, exec says

October 20, 2026

The NFL is poised to expand its global reach with a potential record number of international games next season, according to league officials. With the current collective bargaining agreement allowing up to 10 matches abroad, the league is evaluating whether to maximize that limit after this year’s nine-game slate.

The push comes as part of a broader strategy to develop a full-season international schedule, which would require player approval before the 2031 CBA expiration. This follows a steady increase from five games in 2022–2024 to seven in 2025, signaling growing ambition to leverage overseas markets as domestic viewership for Sunday afternoon broadcasts continues to decline.

The league’s long-term vision includes bundling international games into broadcast packages, potentially aligning with an 18-game season if players agree to further adjustments. For now, the focus remains on testing demand, with next year’s 10-game cap marking a significant step toward a fully globalized slate.