The NFL has tried for many years to establish itself in other countries, particularly in Mexico and England. There has even been talk in recent years about the long-term potential of there being an NFL franchise based in London, whether it represents an entirely new franchise or an existing one that moves there. The Jacksonville Jaguars previously had some interest.
In order for that to be viable, though, they need to have more traction in the country, and to that end, they are trying to further their imprint there year after year, recently scheduling what I believe is now up to four games played overseas per season.