Jerry Jones Pushes for NFL Scheduling Shake-up

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has suggested the NFL consider incorporating geographic rivalries into its scheduling formula, according to CBS Sports. Speaking with 105.3 The Fan, Jones pointed to the appeal of "my town against your town" matchups, citing a recent Cleveland and Pittsburgh game as an example of the fundamental appeal of such proximities.

While Jones noted that the league has previously considered such changes, the NFL has refrained from altering a formula that has remained largely intact since the league expanded to 32 teams in 2002. The current system focuses on a rotation designed for fair, complete competition, which includes division games, rotating conference matchups, and games based on prior-year standings. The only significant recent change occurred in 2021 to accommodate a 17th game, as reported by CBS Sports.

CBS Sports notes that a lack of natural rivals for every team makes a geographic mandate difficult, particularly for AFC vs. NFC matchups. However, the league may revisit the formula when it eventually expands to an 18-game schedule, which CBS Sports reported in April is likely to be introduced between 2028 and 2031. While Jones advocates for rivalry games, CBS Sports suggests the league is more likely to use an 18th game to add annual international matchups against interconference opponents.