Roger Goodell has delayed the vote on the Detroit Lions’ proposal for open playoff seeding until May. This move gives a hint that Goodell is backing the idea, but the league still needs more support to pass it. The Lions want teams to be seeded based on their win percentage, not just division wins. Last year, a number of teams rested their key players in Week 18 because they had already locked in their playoff positions. Under this new system, teams would have more at stake in the final games, making the end of the season more competitive. The idea is to make the regular season matter more and keep the intensity high for the teams fighting for playoff spots.
As the NFL heads into another round of discussions, there’s also a proposal to reseed teams after the first round of playoffs. This could have changed last year’s matchups, making it fairer for teams like the Lions, who had to face a tough 12-win Commanders team while other teams had easier matchups. The debate will continue in May, but it’s clear that Goodell wants to make sure the NFL playoffs are as exciting and fair as possible.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are gearing up for a major project in Woodland Hills, CA, where they plan to build a new state-of-the-art facility by 2028. It’s a move that aims to bring the team more in line with other NFL franchises who’ve recently upgraded their facilities. This new Rams’ headquarters could be a game-changer for attracting veteran players and making the team even more of a destination for top talent.
Also, Wes Welker is joining the Washington Commanders in a dual role as a personnel analyst. His experience both as a player and coach, combined with his history with key staff members, should give him unique insight into how the team will build for the future.
There’s also buzz around Trey Lance joining the Los Angeles Chargers, where he’ll get a fresh start with a new offensive system. Lance has struggled with consistency in his career, and he’ll need time to adjust, but the Chargers’ offense could be the perfect place for him to thrive.
Other news includes the Raiders’ Geno Smith using his age as motivation as he looks to prove people wrong about his abilities. Smith, now 35, is determined to keep improving, especially now that he’s in a great situation with the Raiders. Plus, some NFL teams are questioning the decision to let players participate in flag football at the Olympics, given the injury risks and the lack of connection to their main sport.
As the NFL Draft approaches, teams are still debating which players to pick, and the Jaguars’ decision to pick up Travon Walker’s fifth-year option shows how the market is shifting for edge rushers. Meanwhile, other players like Jalen Milroe and Jalon Walker are being discussed as potential first-round picks, though there’s still a lot of uncertainty about who will come out on top.
This offseason is full of big decisions and changes that could shake up the league. Stay tuned as the NFL continues to evolve.
Debate Intensifies Over Lions’ Proposed NFL Playoff Seeding Overhaul
