The NFL Players Association and the NFL have had "very high-level" discussions over a potential 18-game regular season, says NFLPA executive director, Lloyd Howell.

While the talks have not reached a formal negotiation stage between the two parties, Howell noted there were plans in place for the NFLPA to present the issue to the players in the near future.

If the plans were put into place, the 18th game would likely replace one of the three pre-season games, and push the Super Bowl back a week to Presidents' Day weekend.

In the past, players have been opposed to expanding the schedule, with New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers publicly speaking out against a 17-game season back in 2021.

Howell admitted there were obstacles to overcome before it could be brought to the players but remained optimistic about the chances of the fixture list expanding.

"We have talked at a very, very, very high level superficially, with a recognition about 'Yeah, this is something that we should be talking about. And we should really kick the tires and understand what else goes into that decision-making process'," Howell told the Washington Post.

"Many of our players have said, 'They're going to ask for more games'.

"So, one of the things you learn in business is this applies back to the obvious - I know you're going to ask for more games because that generates more money. And to be fair, don't we all want to grow the pie?"

It's feeling like football season again.

All 32 teams are back on the field this weekend!

: Back Together Weekend: July 27-28 on @NFLNetwork, ABC, ESPN
: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/ZQSMcTOtIE

— NFL (@NFL) July 22, 2024