Shortening the NFL Preseason: A Compelling Case
Shortening the NFL Preseason: A Compelling Case
By Jocelyn Alano July 16, 2024 12:48
There has always been a great deal of disagreement between football fans, players, coaches and the league over whether preseason games are actually necessary. But, at a time we wade through the details of all that, it is clear you can make an awfully good argument for cutting down on how long the NFL preseason lasts. Let us analyze the different aspects of this and find out what is defined in each case.
The Evolution of the Preseason
Formerly, the traditional preseason routine involved starters gradually increasing their playing time over the course of the preseason, culminating in partial or complete rest during the final game. However, recent years have seen a shift in this approach. Many coaches, including those from successful teams like the Los Angeles Rams and the Chicago Bears, have chosen to rest key players, citing concerns over preseason-game injuries.
The sentiment against the current preseason structure is echoed by influential figures within the NFL. Green Bay Packers president/CEO Mark Murphy pointed out the declining quality of preseason games, emphasizing that even reducing the number of games might not be sufficient to justify exposing high-salaried players to potential injuries.
Quality vs. Revenue
One of the key arguments for shortening the NFL preseason revolves around the quality of the games. The prevailing sentiment is that the quality of preseason games has been diminishing, with many coaches expressing a preference for alternative methods, such as joint practices with other teams, to prepare for the regular season.
However, the financial aspect cannot be overlooked. Preseason games are included in NFL season-ticket packages, ensuring high attendance despite the declining quality of the games. Any reduction in the number of preseason games directly impacts team revenues, thus necessitating a careful balancing act between quality and financial considerations.
Player Safety and Development
The issue of player safety is a paramount concern in the discussion about shortening the NFL preseason. With the increasing reluctance to expose key players to potential injuries during preseason games, the focus has shifted towards exploring alternative structures for player development, particularly for young and upcoming talents.
Furthermore, the potential hindrance to player development, especially for young quarterbacks and players vying for final roster spots, has been raised as a counterpoint to the proposal for a shorter preseason. However, proponents of the shortened preseason argue that alternative developmental platforms, such as a designated developmental league, could better serve the interests of young players, including quarterbacks.
A Path Forward
The debate surrounding the NFL preseason's length has gained traction, with the looming expiration of the collective bargaining agreement with players in 2021 serving as a natural juncture for potential restructuring. The proposal to potentially expand the playoff field and revisit the idea of an 18-game regular season, accompanied by a two-game preseason, has emerged as a potential avenue for addressing the shortcomings of the current preseason structure.
In the End
The case for shortening the NFL preseason is multifaceted, encompassing considerations of game quality, player safety, and financial implications. As the NFL navigates through this juncture, it becomes evident that the conversation is not merely about reducing the number of preseason games but about redefining the developmental and preparatory landscape for players and teams alike. While the debate continues, it is clear that the evolving nature of the NFL preseason warrants a comprehensive reevaluation to align with the ever-changing dynamics of the sport.
In conclusion, the NFL preseason stands at a crossroads, and the case for its potential shortening is compelling, given the multifaceted considerations at play. As the league moves forward, the discourse surrounding the preseason's length will undoubtedly shape the future of the NFL and its approach to player development, safety, and the overall quality of the game.
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