Aaron Rodgers delivered a sharp critique of NFL ownership during his postgame press conference in Paris, following the Pittsburgh Steelers’ victory over the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France. The 42-year-old quarterback argued that the league’s current international game structure fails to prioritize player well-being, advocating instead for a reformed system that integrates a universal bye week. Rodgers emphasized that this specific framework was previously discussed during collective bargaining negotiations but was ultimately discarded in favor of adding a 17th regular-season game, a decision he believes compromised the integrity of the schedule.
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The quarterback detailed how the proposed “international week” would have featured games in 16 different locations, allowing teams to play 16 regular-season games while retaining two bye weeks. In this model, one bye week would serve as the universal international slot, creating a dedicated period for global expansion without the physical toll of consecutive travel and competition. Rodgers described the concept as “phenomenal,” suggesting it would have successfully grown the game internationally while respecting the physiological limits of athletes.
By linking the rejection of this proposal to the owners’ desire for an additional revenue-generating game, Rodgers highlighted a perceived conflict between financial expansion and player safety. His comments serve as a significant public challenge to the NFL’s scheduling priorities, forcing a conversation about whether the league’s aggressive international strategy is sustainable without structural changes that protect its talent. As the Steelers depart Paris, Rodgers’ stance underscores a growing tension between the league’s global ambitions and the practical realities of player health.
Source: Yahoo Sports
