Goodell Confident of NFL Action in Ireland

NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, expressed his unwavering belief that American football games will have an Irish audience in the near future. An indication of this came during his recent dialogue at an event in the UK.

In the build-up to the thrilling match between the Jaguars and Bears at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Goodell hinted at the possibility of the NFL holding a game in Ireland soon. His assurance holds weight, given the Pittsburgh Steelers' pressing interest in plying their craft on Irish soil.

Indeed, Goodell confidently stated, “The Pittsburgh Steelers are eager to play there, and I can assure you that making this possibility a reality will happen. Although I cannot ascertain a specific timeline, let it be known that it's on the horizon.”

Steelers Ready To Make International Tradeoffs

As part of its international growth strategy, the NFL plans to host more games outside the United States. The Steelers have signaled their interest in participating in this global expansion, even if it means negotiating their home game quotas.

With the Steelers scheduled to host nine games next year, questions arose over alternative plans if Ireland doesn't feature in their 2022 itinerary. Answers to these range from the Steelers surrendering one of their eight home matches in 2026, fronting one of their away fixtures in Ireland, to postponing the encounter until 2027 when they are due to host nine home matches.

Possible Super Bowl Outfit Beyond US Borders

The Commissioner further fueled the discussion of the NFL's global expansion by exploring the prospect of holding a Super Bowl outside the United States. Goodell inserted this idea into the conversations during his engagement with fans at a forum in London.

Historically, Goodell had been quick to dismiss such propositions. However, in response to a curious fan's query about transitioning the Super Bowl to international venues, he hinted at possibilities beyond the traditional confines of NFL cities.

Goodell reasoned, “The Super Bowl has typically been a reward for cities with NFL franchises. Nevertheless, times are evolving, and the likelihood of staging the Super Bowl outside the United States wouldn't take me by surprise.”