The NFL is Expanding Internationally

It is considered the strongest league in the world, not only for its economic impact but also for its penetration in the United States and the rest of the world. However, the NFL is also facing some challenges. TV ratings in the US have dropped by 9% this season and the league has been involved in several controversies that have upset fans and players, such as Thursday night games and potential changes to reception rules. Nevertheless, when it comes to international games, the NFL has achieved good results.

"We have had a great experience in our visits to Mexico. The enthusiasm for the game has grown since we returned. This year, we will return with the Rams and the Chiefs and we know it will be a great success," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "Mexico has very sophisticated fans who know the sport, and we believe that will allow us to have more games there. The upcoming game will allow us to present more quality to the fans."

Commissioner Goodell mentioned this as one of the positive outcomes for the league, which, in addition to the game at Estadio Azteca, has already secured three games in London for the next season, and is also looking at the potential market in Asia. Although there are no specific numbers, the growth of the NFL's presence outside the United States (considering that they have had a total of 1,979,153 fans in the 24 games played in the UK and Mexico) is one of the greatest achievements under his administration, even though it has caused some dissatisfaction in domestic markets like Oakland with Raiders fans.

"Playing outside the US is a decision made by all team owners, based on our interest in growing the league's global presence. Teams are very eager for that," explained Commissioner Goodell. "We have taken 29 out of 32 teams to play in the UK, and that is great for our game, for the teams, and for the fans. Of course, this comes with the sacrifice of occasionally playing away games. It is true that the Raiders have had more away games lately, but it is also true that some teams are in the process of transitioning from one place to another, and we try to maintain a good balance on that issue. We understand how passionate the fans in Oakland are, but we have to continue expanding our game."

But the trips to Europe and Mexico are just one pleasant aspect of a sport that has had to deal with inherent game-related issues. One of them is the controversial reception rule, which has created a lot of doubts and frustrations among both players and fans.

"There are different points of view on this issue. A few weeks ago, some Hall of Fame players met to discuss it, and there are different opinions on whether it is or is not a completed pass. For example, Chris Carter says that you must be able to catch the pass, get up, and hand the ball to the official for it to be considered a completed pass, while others believe that if you catch a pass and have both feet inbounds, it is completed," said Goodell. "Before considering adding or removing anything, we need to think about how to make it clearer and less confusing."

While the league is scratching its head trying to figure out how to resolve this issue, it is also focused on attracting new generations. Being a well-known and followed league does not guarantee its future, especially among young people and children. Seeing that television has less of an impact (with the decrease in ratings this season) as it is being overtaken by new communication channels has also become a challenge for Goodell, who has at least found one positive move.

One of the sons of former coach Tony Dungy asked him about his thoughts on the rule change regarding celebrations and what they plan to do to make the game more entertaining for children.

"I think the rule change we made prior to the season had the impact we desired. It allowed players to express themselves, and it seems like you liked it," said the commissioner. "To make the game more appealing to younger audiences, we need to make it more accessible on the platforms where you spend most of your time, such as mobile phones or tablets."

Purchase your tickets for Super Bowl 2018