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Source: NFL
Summary
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell dismissed concerns from San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan about playing a game in Australia in Week 1 of the 2026 season. Goodell said he will send Shanahan an app to help with jet lag. The 49ers will play the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, in the first game of the season. Goodell emphasized that the NFL is focused on making it a great experience for everyone. Shanahan joked that his goal is to play a game 19 to 20 hours away to start the season.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Shanahan’s concerns about playing in Australia were brushed off by Goodell, who thinks an app will solve the jet lag problem.
The 49ers-Rams game is just the beginning of the NFL’s investment in the Australian market.
Shanahan doesn’t see the point in playing a game that requires a 19-hour flight, but he thinks it’s cool to see the NFL globally.
This one felt recognizable early, as coaches’ priorities solely lie with winning football games, and Goodell is focused on making it a great experience for everyone.
Original observation: The NFL’s willingness to send teams on long flights is a testament to the league’s desire to expand its global reach, no matter the cost to the teams.
Author: Evan Null
