NFL could play in China by 2018

The NFL hasn't shied away from expanding its reach overseas. The league is returning to Mexico City in 2016 and has been open about its aspirations to go above and beyond its second home in England.

According to NFL Media's Albert Breer, that could involve a regular-season game in China as early as 2018 and Germany in 2017. Fox Sports first reported the development on China.

The league recently mentioned Germany and Brazil as potential destinations along with an expanded commitment to the United Kingdom. Jaguars owner Shad Khan recently extended his commitment to England for five years, with an additional option to make it an agreement through 2025. The league also will be playing at a second stadium -- London's Twickenham Stadium -- this season.

A visit to China would be the league's boldest undertaking to date. The NFL had plans to play in China back in 2007 in a game that was tentatively rescheduled to 2009 but ended up never coming to fruition.

NFL Media's Judy Battista noted that no vote would be necessary by owners to approve the China game, as they already authorized the scheduling of more international games.

Source: nfl.com