The Cowboys owner said the idea had come up in league discussions, but the scheduling formula has not changed.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said the NFL has discussed scheduling more games between geographically close rivals. In an interview with 105.3 The Fan, he said the idea was “in the mix,” but the league had not changed its current formula. Jones cited Dallas–Houston and said local rivalries are an important part of American football.
The current formula was introduced in 2002 when the NFL expanded to 32 teams and adjusted in 2021 after a 17th game was added. Teams play six division games, rotate through divisions within and outside their conference, and receive additional matchups based on the previous season’s standings.
Jones said any geographic matchups should be considered across the league, not only for Dallas and Houston. CBS Sports noted that such a change would be difficult to apply to every team, especially across the AFC and NFC. The issue could return if the NFL moves to an 18-game season, but Jones gave no proposal or timeline.