Aaron Rodgers Advocates for Expanding NFL International Games

Aaron Rodgers, the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, has expressed his enthusiasm for the NFL’s international games. After the Steelers played in France, marking the league’s first game there, Rodgers shared lessons from past collective bargaining talks. He believes opportunities were missed to broaden international game offerings because of a focus on revenue.

Rodgers, in his 22nd and final NFL season, recalled discussions during the 2011 collective bargaining negotiations. He mentioned the potential for expanding international games at that time. Rodgers remarked, “The reach of the league is fantastic. I always wanted to be a part of it.”

There was once a proposal for an international week, where the league could host games in 16 different locations, adding an extra bye week for teams. This idea was supposed to introduce more fans worldwide to the NFL.

“So you’d play 16 regular-season games,” Rodgers explained, “You have two bye weeks. One of those weeks would be an international week. I think it’d been phenomenal for the game.”

Rodgers advocates for this vision, believing it would immensely benefit the game. He mentioned the current push by owners for 17 regular-season games, hinting at their emphasis on revenue. Rodgers noted, “It [the international week] would have been nice.”

Discussing potential international venues, Rodgers highlighted several possibilities. He suggested countries like Canada, Mexico, Brazil, France, Spain, Germany, England, Ireland, and even Dubai as host locations for future games.

He commented on the expansion potential, “There’s, uh, you know, Dubai. That area has really gotten into the sporting world in a number of ways.”

Despite his support for games abroad, Rodgers wishes the league would establish travel parameters. He proposes mandating teams to arrive early and engage in cultural and community activities. But, as of now, the NFL seems reluctant to impose such mandates.

“I wish there was a mandate, though, from the league, and they would have to open up their pocketbooks too,” Rodgers stated. He pointed out the league’s reluctance due to budget concerns.

Rodgers’s passion for promoting the game internationally is evident. He hopes for more interactive opportunities for teams in host cities.