The NFL has committed to playing seven international games in 2025, but the league is exploring possibilities to expand this number further. Executive vice president Peter O’Reilly revealed that there could be up to eight regular-season games scheduled internationally in 2026, separate from the Jacksonville Jaguars' additional international game opportunities. With renovations at their home stadium, the Jaguars may host two international games in 2026, potentially bringing the total to ten international contests. The league's growing global popularity, highlighted by record viewership in 2024, supports this expansion strategy.

Expanding Beyond Borders: NFL's International Game Strategy

In its pursuit of global dominance, the NFL plans to increase the number of international games beyond the fixed seven in 2025. Current regulations allow for up to eight regular-season matches abroad, excluding the unique opportunity model utilized by the Jaguars. This strategic move aims to tap into emerging markets and enhance the sport’s international appeal.

The framework for hosting international games includes a blend of league-organized events and team-specific opportunities. The Jaguars, under their agreement, can play up to three international games over the first two years of a multi-year plan. Their participation adds flexibility to the overall schedule. By leveraging both the league resolution and individual team agreements, the NFL creates a robust platform for expanding its global footprint. The success of previous international games and increasing viewership statistics underline the potential benefits of such an approach.

Jacksonville Jaguars: A Key Player in NFL's Global Ambitions

The Jacksonville Jaguars are central to the NFL's international growth strategy due to their unique scheduling arrangement. With renovations planned for their home stadium, the team is poised to play more games abroad, potentially reaching two in 2026. This aligns with the league’s broader vision of increasing international engagement.

The Jaguars' commitment to international games stems from a long-standing partnership with London's Wembley Stadium. Under their current agreement, they have the flexibility to schedule up to six international games between 2025 and 2027. While only one game is confirmed for 2025, the possibility of doubling that number in subsequent years significantly boosts the league's capacity for overseas matches. Furthermore, the Jaguars’ involvement exemplifies how individual teams contribute to the NFL’s global aspirations. As the league continues to grow globally, the Jaguars represent a critical piece of the puzzle, showcasing the potential synergy between team initiatives and league-wide strategies.