NFL to expand international games beyond UK with new agreement

The NFL passed a resolution Wednesday extending its commitment to playing international games through 2025, including contests outside the United Kingdom.

"This marks an important step in our long-term international growth," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "Fans in the UK have responded incredibly well to the regular-season games we have played in London since 2007. They have demonstrated more NFL games, and we have worked to accommodate them.

"We think it's time to expand our International Series to other countries and respond to the growing interest in our game not only in the UK, but elsewhere around the world."

The slate of international games for the 2016 season will be announced later this fall. NFL executive Mark Waller said Mexico is the focus for 2016 and Rio de Janeiro, South Africa, and Australia could all be considered for future Pro Bowl locations.

Germany, Canada, and China have also been rumored as possible hosts for international games.