NFL Expands International Games to 10 in 2027, Amends Key Scheduling Policy

NFL Sets Record with Upcoming International Games

In a historic move, the NFL has approved the addition of 10 international games for the 2027 season. This decision marks the highest number of international games authorized under the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The announcement also coincides with a pivotal amendment to scheduling policies, allowing teams to play any home game internationally without restrictions.

A New Era for International Play

During the recent NFL spring league meeting held in Orlando, team owners voted to expand the league's international schedule. The change means that each team will be eligible to play in one of the 10 games slated for 2027, while a separate game at Wembley Stadium, traditionally hosted by the Jacksonville Jaguars, will not count against this total. As a result, the league could potentially see as many as 11 international games in one season.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has expressed aspirations for increasing the number of international games to as many as 16 per season in the future. However, this plan hinges on the ratification of a new CBA between the NFL and the NFL Players Association.

Impact of the Scheduling Policy Change

One of the most notable changes approved at the league meeting involves the removal of the policy that allowed teams to protect up to five home games from being moved abroad. This significant shift is expected to lead to more appealing matchups for international fans and could include popular teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers appearing in overseas games more frequently.

Mike North, the NFL's Vice President of Broadcast Planning, emphasized how eliminating the protection policy would help enhance the league's international image and better serve fans. "You can't have a team say, 'Well, I don't want my two best games ineligible for international.' What kind of message does that send to the international fans?" said North.

With this updated policy, all home games are now open to being scheduled internationally, paving the way for exciting new matchups that were previously unlikely.

Upcoming International Game Schedule

As anticipation builds for the 2027 international season, the NFL is not resting on its laurels. This year's slate of international games is already unparalleled, featuring notable matchups such as:

• Week 1: Melbourne – Rams vs. 49ers
• Week 3: Rio de Janeiro – Cowboys vs. Ravens
• Week 4: London – Commanders vs. Colts (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)
• Week 5: London – Jaguars vs. Texans (Wembley Stadium)
• Week 6: London – Jaguars vs. Eagles (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)
• Week 7: Paris – Saints vs. Steelers
• Week 9: Madrid – Falcons vs. Bengals
• Week 10: Munich – Lions vs. Patriots
• Week 11: Mexico City – 49ers vs. Vikings

This progressive approach to scheduling is likely to benefit both the NFL's international branding efforts and the fans eager to see their favorite teams play overseas. The league's commitment to expanding its reach beyond the United States continues to develop as anticipation grows for the future of international NFL football.