NEW ORLEANS >> NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell disputed the perception that officials favor the Kansas City Chiefs, saying it’s a “ridiculous theory.”

Goodell addressed several topics, including diversity, an 18-game season, international expansion, Tom Brady’s dual role as a broadcaster and co-owner and more during his annual news conference that kicked off Super Bowl week on Monday.

The Chiefs are going for a three-peat against the Eagles, who lost to Kansas City 38-35 two years ago.

The two-time defending champions have benefited from calls that have gone their way in the playoffs. There were two roughing-the-passer penalties during a 23-14 win over Houston in the divisional round that viewers, including Fox broadcasters Troy Aikman and Joe Buck, considered egregious.

A questionable spot on Josh Allen’s sneak on fourth-and-1 in the fourth quarter of Kansas City’s 32-29 victory over Buffalo in the AFC title game was a major point of contention.

“A lot of those theories are things that happen in social media and they get a new life,” Goodell said during his 48-minute news conference inside the Saints’ locker room. “We have the highest possible (officiating) standards. It’s a ridiculous theory for anyone who might take it seriously.”

International expansion >> The NFL is aiming to have a team outside the United States.

“I do think there’s potential that someday we will have an international franchise.” Goodell said.

Diversity >> Goodell said he doesn’t believe the NFL’s policies to promote diversity are in conflict with the Trump administration’s efforts to ban government diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

The NFL’s Rooney Rule requires teams to interview diverse candidates for key coaching and front office positions. “There are no quotas in our system. This is about opening that funnel and bringing the best talent into the NFL.”

18-game season >> Goodell said there’s “a lot of work to be done” before the NFL possibly expands its season to 18 regular-season games.

The league hasn’t had formal negotiations with the players’ union about adding a game to the season but Goodell said he has had informal discussions with NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell Jr.

Tom Brady >> The league will consider whether rules surrounding Tom Brady’s role as a Fox analyst and a Raiders minority owner need to be altered.

Brady was approved as a minority owner and played a big role during the team’s search that ended with new coach Pete Carroll and new general manager John Spytek.

Justin Tucker >> The NFL plans to look into the “serious” allegations that Ravens kicker Justin Tucker engaged in sexually inappropriate conduct with several massage therapists. Nine massage therapists from five spas and wellness centers have told the Baltimore Banner Tucker engaged in sexually inappropriate conduct during sessions from 2012-16.