NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has responded directly to San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan's pointed criticism of the league's international scheduling. Shanahan, whose team will open the 2025 season against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, was blunt in his assessment, stating he saw "no pro" to the long-distance trip and minimal benefit for his team beyond a potential bye week—which isn't happening in Week 1.

During a promotional visit to Australia this week, Goodell addressed the coach's concerns head-on. Acknowledging Shanahan's primary focus is winning, Goodell emphasized the league's commitment to ensuring a positive experience for both competing teams. He even joked about having a jet-lag app to send the 49ers' coach, highlighting his own seamless adjustment to the 17-hour time difference.

"Coaches have a focus on winning. That's their No. 1 job," Goodell stated. "Coach Shanahan is a great football coach who understands expanding our game globally, but his job is to win. Our job is to make it a great experience for the team... This game counts, and they'll go on to Week 2 as soon as they leave here."

The logistical challenge is significant. The game is scheduled for Thursday, September 10, at 5:30 p.m. PT, but due to the time difference, it will kick off locally in Melbourne on Friday morning at 10:35 a.m. The extensive travel and time-zone shift present a unique early-season test for two NFC West rivals, adding a fascinating layer of strategy and adaptation to their 2025 campaign.