We are sad to see the Pro Bowl disappear, but this movement has been several years in the making. Players consistently opted out of the event, forcing the league to name disappointing alternatives. Those who did play rarely took it seriously. The NFL switched to the flag football format four years ago. This alleviated some risk of injury for players, but further separated the declining event from traditional football. Now the league will simply award Pro Bowl designation to 88 offensive, defensive and special teams players. An in-person celebration of the Pro Bowl roster will take place in February.
