Roger Goodell's comments about foreign teams put expansion on the table

Key Points:

• The NFL has not expanded since 2002, marking its longest period without adding a new team, but Commissioner Roger Goodell has indicated that international teams are inevitable, suggesting the league will grow beyond 32 franchises.
• Goodell mentioned there will be multiple teams outside the USA, implying either two existing teams will relocate internationally or two new expansion teams will be added abroad, with London being the most likely destination due to its NFL-ready stadiums and established relationship with the league.
• The Jacksonville Jaguars are unlikely to relocate due to their new long-term lease and stadium renovations, making expansion teams in London the probable path for international growth.
• To maintain league balance, the NFL may temporarily place one London team in the AFC East and another in the NFC East, with future European expansion possibly leading to new divisions and an ideal 40-team structure featuring international divisions in both conferences.
• While travel logistics pose challenges, including the potential need for supersonic travel, the NFL views international expansion as a matter of when, not if, and plans to address operational hurdles as they arise.