Discussion of International Week During 2020 CBA Talks Lacked Serious Consideration

During a recent statement, Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers suggested that the idea of an international week, where all 32 NFL teams would play in foreign countries simultaneously, was discussed during the 2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations.

However, sources indicate that this concept was never a serious consideration. The NFL opted for a 17-game regular season instead of planning for 16 international games in one weekend, which would present significant logistical challenges.

The league's strategy focuses on developing European games into a television package, with multiple games scheduled at 9:30 a.m. ET, rather than concentrating all international games into a single weekend. Additionally, the NFL has historically avoided adding a second bye week, as it was unpopular with networks during previous experiments.