The NFL will not have the Pro Bowl Games anymore; instead, the emphasis will be on honoring players for being selected to the Pro Bowl team.
Starting from the 2026 season, 88 players will be selected to the Pro Bowl roster at the end of December with no replacement selections.
“It’s OK to be the first league to walk away from a competitive all-star game,” NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly said.
Structural Overhaul
There won’t be a traditional AFC vs. NFC game, but the players selected as Pro Bowlers will be invited to join the in-person Pro Bowl celebration in Los Angeles at the weekend when the Pro Bowl Games usually occur.
“This direction came directly from our continued conversations with players and what they value most about the Pro Bowl,” NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent said in a statement.
“Being selected by your peers, coaches and fans as one of the very best at your position carries tremendous meaning. We heard clearly that the distinction matters, and our focus is on making the recognition that comes with it worthy of what these players accomplished on the field.”
Player Input
Vincent claimed players said they “don’t want competitive play” after the playoffs.
“You come off the championship games and the viewers see the physicality of the game and you try to replicate that,” he said. “Frankly, it just doesn’t sit well. This isn’t a good representation.”
There won’t be a traditional AFC vs. NFC game, but the players selected as Pro Bowlers will be invited to join the in-person Pro Bowl celebration in Los Angeles at the weekend when the Pro Bowl Games usually occur.
For over eight decades, since 1938 except for 2021 due to the pandemic, the NFL has played the traditional Pro Bowl games and this year it will change its format to dodgeball, throwing contests, and other skills tests, culminating in a flag football game.
