Archive · 15 Nov 2025
Commanders Coach Dan Quinn Thinks NFL Teams Can Play Abroad Annually
Imagine your favorite football team going on a long trip to play a game in another country!
Coach Dan Quinn thinks it's a good idea for NFL teams to do this every year.
He says it can be a bit tough at first because players have to get used to a new place, and finding places to practice or get treatment can be tricky.
But, he also loves how it brings the team closer together.
He thinks that with good planning, like traveling on a Monday to be ready for a Sunday game, teams can adapt and still play well.
The NFL is trying to play more games around the world, and this year had the most international games ever.
Playing abroad helps the NFL reach more fans everywhere.
Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn believes it is feasible for NFL teams to play one game abroad every year.
The NFL is expanding globally, with this season featuring a record seven international games.
Quinn highlighted the bonding opportunity for teams playing abroad, despite initial challenges in adapting to new environments.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has expressed a desire for each team to play an international game annually.
Future NFL international games are planned for Australia, which may present greater time difference challenges.
- Who
- Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell
- What
- Discussing the feasibility and benefits of NFL teams playing at least one game abroad annually.
- When
- Ahead of the Commanders' game in Madrid on Sunday.
- Where
- Madrid, Spain.
- Why
- The NFL is continuing its global expansion, with this season marking a record number of international games.
Arguments for Annual International Games
Challenges of Annual International Games
Feasibility and League Expansion
Arguments for Annual International Games
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants each team to play an international game every year, and Coach Dan Quinn believes it's feasible depending on the destination.
Challenges of Annual International Games
Traveling abroad presents challenges, including adapting to a new environment and finding necessary facilities for treatment and recovery, which takes several days for players to adjust to.
Team Bonding and Performance
Arguments for Annual International Games
Quinn sees playing abroad as a significant bonding opportunity for his squad, which can be beneficial for team morale, especially during a losing streak.
Challenges of Annual International Games
There's an initial adjustment period early in the week that can be difficult, though players become ready to perform closer to game day.
Logistics and Planning
Arguments for Annual International Games
Quinn appreciates the extensive planning involved, with the league, teams, and local organizers working to ensure smooth operations.
Challenges of Annual International Games
Maintaining a consistent routine is difficult due to the unfamiliar surroundings for practice, treatment, and recovery work when not at a team's home facility.
- Teams Playing
- Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins
- Venue
- Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid
- Significance
- Seventh and final international game of the season, the most ever in one year for the NFL.
- Commanders' International Record
- First international game since 2016.
- Dolphins' International Record
- Eighth regular-season international game.
- Past NFL International Host Cities
- London, Munich, Frankfurt, Sao Paulo, Mexico City, Madrid, Berlin, Dublin, Toronto
- Future NFL International Location
- Australia (next year)