March 29 Football History

In what could be a gridiron paradise of events, March 29 holds the key to some significant American football history. In this episode of Football History Headlines, we discuss Tyler Rose, the Browns' name change, the story of one of the famed Four Horsemen, one of the top defensive backs and return men to have ever suited up, Emlen Tunnell, and many more Hall of Fame Legendary stories.

March 29th holds a unique place in the annals of American football history. While the traditional season is months away, this late-winter date has witnessed pivotal moments shaping the sport we know today. From foundational decisions impacting beloved franchises to the arrival of future legends, the energy of football's past resonates even in the off-season.

Across the decades, March 29th has marked significant organizational shifts and the welcoming of individuals who would leave an indelible mark on the game. These are stories of teams taking bold new paths, forever altering their destinies and the league landscape. Additionally, this date has seen the birth of men whose exceptional talent and dedication would ultimately earn them football's highest honor, their legacies enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

On March 29, 1977, the NFL adopted the 16-game regular season and four-game preseason schedule that began in the 1978 season.

Before this decision, the NFL had worked on a 14-game schedule since 1961, which it retained until switching to a 16-game schedule in 1978.

The NFL regular season schedule has expanded from 12 games to 14, then 16, and a new CBA passed in 2020 voted to adopt a 17-game regular season. Eighteen games have been proposed in recent years so the slate could expand again soon. During the week leading up to Super Bowl LIX, Commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned that the league believes an 18-game regular season "might be possible." However, NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell Jr. reiterated shortly afterward that any changes to the schedule must be negotiated through the Collective Bargaining Agreement and that there have been no formal discussions on the topic.

The number of games is a concern for the players and the NFLPA due to health issues.