The San Francisco 49ers clearly aren't happy about having to play not just one, but two international games this season.
While the Week 11 bout against the Minnesota Vikings in Mexico City, Mexico, might not be too bad a road trip, at least by comparison, opening up the regular season with a cross-Pacific flight to take on the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, is an entirely different story.
If you're on the fence wondering if the Niners are happy about it, just consider what head coach Kyle Shanahan had to say in response.
"That was our goal: to go 19 hours away to play a game," Shanahan said earlier this spring. "I think we're going back in time or into the future. I think we gained a day or lose a day, I'm not really sure. But, it is what it is, we'll deal with it."
In addition to San Francisco playing an unprecedented two international games this season, it'll also travel the most miles (again) of all 32 franchises.
"I don’t see any pro," Shanahan added.
So, it shouldn't be a shock to anyone that former NFL star defensive tackle J.J. Watt isn't overly pleased with how the league is bloating its reach.
J.J. Watt claps back at NFL's international expansion
Merely hours before the NFL released its full slate of international games, a day ahead of the regular-season release date of May 13, Watt posted on social media how he felt said overseas games were ultimately impacting the greater product:
International game slate is nearing the realm of traveling circus as opposed occasional showcase.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) May 13, 2026
A "traveling circus" is a great way to put it.
It's clear Watt isn't a fan, and it'd be interesting to hear what further thoughts he has on the subject. For the most part, few players have been openly enthusiastic about global expansion, particularly in light of the toll it can take on their bodies and health.
But, for those hoping the league reels things back in a bit, just consider what NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in response to Shanahan's comments.
"Coach Shanahan is enthusiastic and a great football coach, but also someone who truly understands the importance of expanding our game globally," Goodell responded.
Based on that, and in contrast to Watt's latest take, it sure doesn't sound as if the league will stop trying to expand globally.
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