On September 26th, 2022 the NFL announced that it will be finally be replacing the Pro Bowl game. The event is being replaced with a weeks worth of skills challenges, capped off by a flag football game. In addition, the Pro Bowl will be renamed ” The Pro Bowl Games.”
The NFL established the Pro Bowl in order to replace the College All-Stars game ahead of the 1950 season. However, it was not until the 1970 merger that the game was changed to an interconference matchup. The AFC led the series in conferenced Pro Bowls 26-22.
Watch Mac Jones hit the griddy after a spectacular run in the Pro Bowl 😂: pic.twitter.com/EWP4aGiWps
— Sidelines – Bama (@SSN_Alabama) February 6, 2022
Who/What:
The Pro Bowl Games will consist of the top players from both conferences showcasing their skills in both football and non-football related events. However, fan voting will still be the primary source to select the rosters for each team. Peyton Manning and his production company, Omaha Productions, will be managing the event for the first time. Manning will also be a coach for the AFC during the AFC-NFC flag football game that closes out the week.
Peyton Manning told the Associated Press:
“The Pro Bowl has always been a time to step back and celebrate the game of football with teammates, fans and family. I’m thankful I can continue to be part of the week as all of us at Omaha Productions work with the NFL to reimagine The Pro Bowl Games. Making Sunday’s game a flag football game is great to see. Youth football has been extremely important to me, and knowing NFL FLAG will help grow this sport, I hope boys and girls can see themselves playing the same game as the best players in the world.”
Manning earned a selection to 14 Pro Bowls throughout his career. This record ties him for second most only to Tom Brady with 15.
Why:
Fans and press have been criticizing the quality of the game for quite some time now. NFL Executive Peter O’Reilly told press that the showcase is something they’ve been looking at evolving for awhile.
“Coming out of last year’s game, we really made the decision based on a lot of internal conversations. Getting feedback from GMs and coaches, getting a lot of feedback from players. We think there’s a real opportunity to do something wholly different here and move away from the traditional tackle football game. We decided the goal is to celebrate 88 of the biggest stars in the NFL in a really positive, fun, yet competitive way.”
When/Where:
The Skills Showdown week will take place in Las Vegas in 2023. Allegiant Stadium will host the First Annual Flag Football game on February 5th, 2023.
The final full contact Pro Bowl game was won by the AFC with a score of 41-35. The Offensive and Defensive Most Valuable Players were Chargers QB Justin Herbert, and Raiders DE Maxx Crosby. 
Check out the recap of a game where the Chargers were missing five pro bowlers in a 38-10 loss to the Jags. Insult to Injury. Chargers fall to Jags
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