Coaching Strategies for an 18-Game NFL Season: Adapting to Player Health and Preseason Changes
The roar of the crowd, the clash of helmets, and the thrill of victory – these are the elements that define the NFL. But behind the spectacle lies a complex web of strategy, planning, and adaptation, especially as the league inches closer to an 18-game regular season. With the potential for increased revenue and expanded television deals, the NFL is considering this change, but it brings forth significant challenges for coaches who must now prioritize player health and adjust their approaches to the preseason. As Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, a former NFL linebacker, candidly stated, “To play 17 is long, 18 is just adding more games. It’s definitely harder on the players.”
The Inevitable Expansion and its Impact on Player Health
The move to an 18-game season seems more a question of “when” rather than “if.” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has indicated that schedule expansion negotiations will occur within collective bargaining agreement talks, with the current CBA expiring in 2031. While team owners and networks stand to gain financially through expanded television contracts with CBS, Fox, Amazon, and ESPN, higher ticket sales, and increased advertising revenue, the primary concern revolves around the physical toll on players.
NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell has voiced strong opposition to the 18-game season, emphasizing the detrimental effect on player health and safety. “Right now, when I have talked to the players the last two seasons, no one wants to play an 18th game,” Howell stated. “Seventeen games is already, for many of the guys, too long. Seventeen games is also so lengthy that you’re still dealing with injuries going into the next season.”
To mitigate these concerns, potential compromises like two bye weeks have been suggested. Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid acknowledged the challenges, stating, “The challenge is the health part of it. You know, the guys staying healthy. However, they’ll work something out. I’m sure they’re going to give the guys a little break in there somewhere, maybe two bye weeks, who knows? We’ll be coaching well into the New Year.”
Adapting Preseason Strategies
The likely implementation of an 18-game season will also bring about changes to the preseason. The reduction from four to three games in 2021, when the league moved to a 17-game schedule, offers a glimpse into the future. Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen believes coaches will adapt, saying, “Whether it’s 18 [games] or stays at 17, I think all the coaches will have to adapt and adjust to it.”
However, some coaches worry about the impact on player development. DeMeco Ryans emphasized the importance of preseason for young players: “Training camp is great for a lot of young guys to develop. We need as much training camp and getting those guys in actual games. I think it helps our young guys a lot.”
With fewer preseason games, the emphasis on training camps and joint practices will increase. These joint sessions allow teams to simulate competitive scenarios without the full contact risks of preseason matchups.
Coaching Philosophies in the New Era
In this evolving landscape, coaching philosophies must adapt to prioritize player health and maximize performance within the constraints of a longer season and shorter preseason.
Load Management: Coaches may need to implement “load management” strategies, similar to those used in the NBA, to ensure players receive adequate rest. This could involve resting key players during certain games or limiting their practice time.
Individualized Training Programs: Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn emphasizes “tailor-made” programs for players, providing individualized care based on their career stage and specific needs. This includes personalized nutrition, strength and conditioning, and injury-recovery programs.
Emphasis on Teaching: Dan Quinn also highlights the importance of teaching proper techniques to enhance safety. For example, teaching shoulder tackling can maintain physicality while minimizing head injuries.
Collaboration with Medical Staff: A collaborative approach between coaches, medical staff, and athletic performance teams is crucial. As Quinn notes, “Medical staff, strength and conditioning, athletic performance – the collaboration that has to take place between different departments is crucial to ensure that each player is prepared the very best way.”
Strategic Use of Roster: Coaches like Bill Belichick are known for their ability to adapt game plans based on opponents’ weaknesses and utilize lesser-known players in pivotal roles. This approach can help to keep players fresh and reduce the reliance on a few key individuals.
The Mental Game
Beyond the physical aspects, coaches must also address the mental toll of a longer season. As NFLPA president Jalen Reeves-Maybin stated, “I definitely think you feel it on your body. You feel the mental toll just going through the season.”
Coaches can foster a positive environment based on mutual respect and support, clearly define roles and expectations, and maintain open communication with players. Encouraging players to connect off the field and emphasizing team goals over individual achievements can also strengthen team chemistry and resilience.
Rule Changes and Tactical Adjustments
The NFL is continuously evaluating and modifying rules to enhance player safety. For example, the elimination of the hip-drop tackle in 2024 demonstrates the league’s commitment to reducing dangerous plays. Coaches must stay informed about these changes and adapt their strategies accordingly.
The increased emphasis on analytics and technology will also play a significant role in shaping coaching strategies. Coaches like Bill Belichick have embraced analytics to make informed decisions on fourth-down conversions and clock management.
The Road Ahead
The potential move to an 18-game season presents both challenges and opportunities for NFL coaches. By prioritizing player health, adapting preseason strategies, and embracing innovative coaching philosophies, teams can navigate this evolving landscape and continue to deliver exciting and competitive football. While the debate continues, one thing is clear: the coaches who can best adapt to these changes will be the ones who lead their teams to success in the years to come.