One of the biggest arguments made against an expanded NFL schedule has been the notion that it would lead to more injuries. The NFL is ready to push back against that notion.
John York, 49ers owner and head of the league’s health and safety advisory committee, said preliminary data indicated it was possible that a 17-game schedule might actually reduce injuries.
“What I will say is that the engineers, our statisticians, the health and safety committee have looked at an extension of one game and other scenarios, and the changes in health and safety are minimal,” York said, via Daniel Kaplan of The Athletic. “In fact, in some cases, it’s a minimal decrease. Others it’s a minimal increase.”
Part of the reason for this is the removal of one preseason game. Concussions were more frequent in preseason games, so the argument is that the removal of one could have a positive impact on injuries. The data, however, is considered preliminary, and it’s probably too soon to put stock in it.
It’s also worth considering the source. The NFL is moving closer to adopting an expanded schedule, and they will want the public to believe that this won’t have a negative impact on the sport. Some skepticism is warranted until a more complete report is available.
