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NFL discontinues Pro Bowl Games, ending AFC vs. NFC flag matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 10:03 PM

Last updated Aug 26, 2026

NFL discontinues Pro Bowl Games, ending AFC vs. NFC flag matchup

Summary

The NFL announced the elimination of the Pro Bowl Games, including the AFC vs. NFC flag football game, effective immediately. The league aims to enhance the prestige of the Pro Bowl by recognizing only the 88 selected players, without replacements. This decision follows a trend of star players declining invitations, which diminished the event's significance. The NFL intends to focus on recognizing players at the moment of selection and plans to hold additional flag football events to promote the sport ahead of its Olympic introduction in 2028. Specific details regarding changes to the Pro Bowl format will be revealed in the future.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•NFL eliminates Pro Bowl Games entirely, including flag football.
•Only 88 players will be honored without replacements.
•Star players frequently declined invitations in recent years.
•Flag football will feature during Pro Bowl weekend and Super Bowl week.
•Focus shifts to celebrating the achievement of Pro Bowl selection.

Latest Updates

10:03 PMYahoo Sports — NFL eliminates Pro Bowl Games, including AFC vs. NFC flag football game

What they're saying

"
The Pro Bowl Games never really got off the ground despite help from Peyton and Eli Manning. The AFC vs. NFC flag football game is no more.
— Yahoo Sports

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