Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has made history as the first NFL quarterback to play international games in three different countries across three consecutive seasons. From London in 2024 to Dublin in 2025 and finally Paris in 2026, Rodgers has embraced the league's global outreach.

Following the Steelers' victory over the New Orleans Saints with a score of 16-10 in Paris, Rodgers shared insights about an ambitious plan that the NFL nearly implemented during negotiations for the collective bargaining agreement in 2020. The proposal aimed to host 16 games in 16 different international locations, allowing each of the 32 teams to compete outside the United States for a week. This would have resulted in a 16-game season with each team enjoying two bye weeks.

Rodgers noted that this innovative idea was ultimately sidelined as team owners prioritized introducing a 17th regular-season game for increased revenue. He expressed disappointment, stating:

"The reach of the league is fantastic, and I think I always wanted to be a part of it. It would have been phenomenal for the game."

The veteran quarterback identified numerous potential locations for these international games, including areas across North America, South America, Europe, and the Middle East. He emphasized that financial constraints appeared to be the main obstacle to expanding the NFL's global reach.

Rodgers advocated for a more immersive experience for teams, suggesting that they should engage with local cultures and communities during their international trips. He remarked:

"I think there are great opportunities for expansion in those things. It'd be awesome to see them have an international week... but they won't because they're tight [with money]."

After spending 17 seasons with the Green Bay Packers without an international game, Rodgers finally played abroad in London during his last season with the team in 2022. Now, after three years of international play with the New York Jets and the Steelers, he remains a strong supporter of the NFL's international growth initiatives.