The NFL is exploring the possibility of introducing a Thanksgiving Eve game into its schedule for the 2026 season, as reported by ESPN. This move would expand the Thanksgiving holiday sports festivities significantly, potentially featuring games on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday, and Monday. Such an addition could create an extended viewing experience for football fans, catering to the growing demand for more football during the holiday season.

However, ex-NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman has voiced concerns over the potential negative effects of this increased schedule. On a recent episode of OutKick’s "Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich," he cautioned that the league risks diluting its product by over-saturating the market with too many games. Merriman drew parallels with the NBA, suggesting that the league's lengthy season can lead to a sense of apathy among fans as the games feel less significant due to their sheer volume.

Merriman further emphasized the physical toll on players, arguing that extending the season could exacerbate injuries and fatigue, especially if additional games were introduced without provision for more rest days. He noted that an additional bye week would be necessary to support players' health if the NFL decided to add more games to the schedule. As the conversation about this potential game continues, the league must weigh fan demand against the implications for player safety and the integrity of the game.