If you’re like me, the NFL season is more than just a series of games—it’s way of life. We spend months analyzing NFL season odds, keeping track of NFL football betting lines, and trying to predict who’s going to win the Super Bowl. But if you find yourself asking the question of how many NFL games there are in a season? Then keep reading, because I’m about to take you on a deep dive into the structure of an NFL season, from the number of games to the length of the season, and even why the offseason feels like it drags on forever. And for those interested in NFL betting picks, this analysis can provide valuable insights to make informed decisions.

Inside the NFL Season: How Many NFL Games in a Season?

Let’s get straight to the point: an NFL regular season consists of 17 games per team. That’s right, 17 glorious Sundays (and the occasional Monday, Thursday, or Saturday) where we get to watch our favorite teams battle it out on the gridiron. This change to 17 games, up from 16, was implemented in 2021, adding an extra week NFL betting action and playoff positioning.

Each team has one bye week during the season, meaning they get one week off to rest and recover. So, in total, the regular season spans 18 weeks. The regular season is just one piece of the puzzle. Before the regular season kicks off, we have the preseason, where each team plays three games (down from four in previous years). This is a chance for teams to test out their rosters, make final cuts, and get into game shape.

And let’s not forget the postseason, where the real magic happens. The playoffs consist of 14 teams—seven from each conference—competing in a single-elimination tournament culminating in the Super Bowl. The number of playoff games per team varies depending on how far they advance, but there are a total of 13 playoff games, including the Super Bowl.

How Many Months is the NFL Season?

Now that we’ve got the number of games sorted out, let’s talk about the length of the season. The NFL regular season typically starts in early September and runs through early January. So, if you’re counting, that’s about four months of regular season action. Add in the playoffs, which run through early February, and you’ve got about five months to bet on the NFL any given season. That’s not including the preseason.

But don’t be fooled—the NFL season isn’t just those five months. It’s a year-round obsession for NFL diehards. The NFL draft in April, the free agency frenzy in March, and the training camps in July and August all contribute to the anticipation and excitement. We’re constantly consuming news, updates, and rumors about our favorite teams and players.

Why is the NFL Offseason So Long?

One of the most common questions I get is, “Why is the NFL offseason so long?” I mean, it feels like an eternity from the end of the Super Bowl to the start of the next season. There are a few reasons for this. First and foremost, football is a physically demanding sport. Players need time to rest, recover, and heal from the grueling hits and injuries sustained during the season. The offseason gives them that much-needed downtime.

Additionally, the offseason is a crucial time for teams to retool and rebuild. Coaches and general managers use this time to evaluate their rosters, make trades, sign free agents, and prepare for the draft. It’s a period of strategic planning and preparation that’s essential for success in the upcoming season.

And let’s be honest, the NFL knows how to keep us hooked. Even during the offseason, there’s always something happening—whether it’s blockbuster trades, shocking retirements, or players getting into shenanigans. It’s like the NFL never really leaves us; it just goes into low-power mode for a few months.

The Impact of the 17-Game Season

The shift to a 17-game season has had a significant impact on the league. For one, it means more football for us fans, which is always a good thing. But it also means more wear and tear on the players. One extra game might not seem like a lot, but in a sport as physically demanding as football, it can make a big difference.

Teams have had to adjust their strategies to account for the longer season. Depth and durability have become even more important, as injuries can pile up over the course of 17 games. Coaches have to be smart about managing their players’ workloads to ensure they stay fresh for the entire season.

The Future of the NFL Season

Looking ahead, there’s always speculation about further changes to the NFL season. Could we see an 18-game season in the future? It’s possible. The league is always looking for ways to grow and evolve, and expanding the schedule could be a part of that.

However, any further expansion would need to be carefully considered. Player safety is a top priority, and adding more games could increase the risk of injuries. There would also need to be discussions with the players’ union to ensure that any changes are fair and beneficial for everyone involved.

For now, we can enjoy the 17-game season and the excitement it brings. Whether you’re a fantasy football fanatatic, a NFL diehard, a nothing else to do type, or someone who loves to bet on NFL games, there’s never been a better time to be a part of the NFL community.

Conclusion: Embracing the NFL Season

So, how many NFL games in a season? In a regular NFL season, there are a total of 272 games. This includes each of the 32 teams playing 17 games over the 18-week season. If you add the preseason and playoffs that number swells to a colossal 381 games per season.

With another season on the horizon, let’s embrace the excitement, the drama, and the unpredictability that comes with NFL football. Whether you’re analyzing NFL season odds, following your favorite team, or placing bets on NFL football betting lines, there’s something for everyone in the world of the NFL.