During the Colts' minicamp, center Ryan Kelly expressed his strong opposition to the idea of an 18-game NFL season. As a member of the NFL Players Association executive committee, Kelly emphasized his concerns about player safety being compromised with an extended season.
Kelly highlighted the physical toll that the current 17-game season already takes on players, stating that adding another game would further strain their bodies. He acknowledged the financial motivations behind the proposal but questioned whether the potential risks outweigh the monetary benefits.
The debate surrounding an expanded season gained momentum after NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell discussed the issue publicly. Players, including Colts defensive end Kwity Paye, have raised demands for additional compensation if an 18th game is introduced.
Kelly proposed the idea of players receiving a more equitable share of the league's revenue or lifetime medical insurance, although he expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such measures.
Concerns about player injuries were underscored by the recent announcement of safety Daniel Scott suffering a season-ending injury during offseason workouts. The Colts are grappling with the impact of injuries on player health and the implications for the proposed changes to the NFL schedule.
In addition to the debate over an extended season, discussions are ongoing about potential modifications to offseason workout schedules. Kelly suggested reevaluating the current offseason structure to optimize player preparation and minimize the risk of injuries.
As the NFL navigates the complexities of balancing player welfare with financial considerations, the future of the league's schedule remains uncertain. The ongoing dialogue between players, team owners, and league officials reflects the challenges of finding a consensus on the optimal approach to the NFL season.
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