Every NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint—and for some teams, that marathon involves more than just the games on the field. In 2026, the league is taking travel to a whole new level, with teams logging miles that would make even the most seasoned road warrior’s head spin. The Washington Commanders, for example, are projected to travel 18,491 miles, landing them right in the middle of the pack at 16th in the NFL. But what does that mean for the players, and how does it stack up against the rest of the league?

Let’s put those numbers in perspective. Across all 32 teams, the NFL will cover a staggering 628,873 miles this season. That’s the equivalent of circling the Earth 25.2 times—or making 2.63 trips to the Moon. Six teams will actually travel farther than the circumference of the planet (24,901 miles), thanks in large part to international games. The San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams are among the heavy hitters, each expected to fly over 30,000 miles in 2026 due to trips like the new game in Melbourne, Australia.

Of course, the Commanders aren’t alone in this jet-setting lifestyle. Every NFL team faces the grind of cross-country flights, but the toll it takes goes beyond just feeling tired. While fans often focus on the fatigue factor, there’s a deeper concern for player health. When flights stretch beyond four hours or cover massive distances in a short span, the risks escalate. Blood clots, specifically deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), become a real threat—even for elite athletes. It’s a reminder that while the Commanders’ 18,491 miles might not be the highest in the league, the wear and tear on the body is something every team has to manage.

So, whether you’re gearing up for game day or just tracking your favorite team’s journey, remember: those miles add up. For the Commanders, 2026 is shaping up to be a season of travel, teamwork, and resilience—both on the field and in the air.