Aaron Rodgers recalls missed CBA talks on 16-game international NFL week

Aaron Rodgers stated that previous collective bargaining negotiations included discussions about a dedicated international week featuring 16 regular-season games abroad, a concept he believes was never implemented due to league ownership priorities. The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback made these remarks following Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints in France, which marked the NFL's first-ever match in the country.

Rodgers, who is in his 22nd and final season in the league, reflected on the 2011 collective bargaining agreement and subsequent talks. He noted that while there was initial talk of expanding international games, significant progress only occurred during the second CBA cycle. During that period, the NFL and NFL Players Association discussed replacing one of the two bye weeks with an international week where all games would be played in different locations.

"I think I'd been phenomenal for the game," Rodgers said regarding the proposed structure. He described the potential scope of such an expansion, citing Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and other South American countries as viable options. He also highlighted opportunities in Europe, including Ireland, France, Spain, Germany, and multiple games in England. Rodgers suggested that expansion could extend to regions like Dubai, noting the area's growing involvement in sports including boxing and UFC.

Despite his enthusiasm for international play, Rodgers expressed criticism of current league ownership. He suggested that an additional 17th regular-season game is being pushed for by owners primarily to generate extra revenue. He contrasted this with what he described as a lack of focus on player safety in relation to international travel. Rodgers argued that the league should mandate teams to travel to international game sites to engage with local cultures and communities, but he believes owners would resist such requirements due to cost concerns.

"I wish there was a mandate, though, from the league, and they would have to open up their pocketbooks too," Rodgers said. He added that owners might look tight on money and therefore would not implement such mandates. The NFL was asked about the possibility of imposing travel mandates on individual teams last week and stated it was against the idea. Rodgers is currently playing for the Steelers after a career that included stints with other teams, though his specific tenure details beyond his current status are not elaborated in this report.

The Steelers defeated the Saints in Paris, a game that proceeded despite earlier concerns about civil unrest and calls to postpone. The event highlighted the league's ongoing efforts to establish a presence in international markets. Rodgers' comments offer a player's perspective on how past labor negotiations could have shaped a more extensive global footprint for the sport.