The NFL and players’ union also tabled discussions on a 17-game regular season, though a scheduling formula was approved. Preseason games are typically aired on local TV. Another regular season contest would surely be attractive to rights holders as the league enters TV contract negotiations in 2021 and 2022. Bereft of on-field practice time, perhaps their bodies weren’t given enough time to prepare for a hard-hitting NFL season. From that standpoint, the two extra preseason games appear to be superfluous.

Source: Forbes December 18, 2020 15:00 UTC