NFL Integrates Pro Bowl Games into Super Bowl Week for 2026

In a significant shift aimed at revitalizing its annual all-star event, the National Football League (NFL) announced that the Pro Bowl Games will be integrated into Super Bowl week, starting in February 2026. Commissioner Roger Goodell unveiled this plan during the league's annual fall owners meeting in New York on October 22, 2025.

The inaugural event under this new format is scheduled for Tuesday night, February 3, 2026, at San Francisco's Moscone Center. This venue, known for hosting large-scale conventions, will also be the site of the Super Bowl Experience fan fest, creating a centralized hub for pre-Super Bowl festivities. The Moscone Center's largest ballroom accommodates approximately 4,000 attendees, offering an intimate setting for fans and a focused environment for television broadcasts.

The Pro Bowl Games will continue with the flag football format between the American Football Conference (AFC) and National Football Conference (NFC) teams, a change first implemented in 2023. This non-contact version of the game was introduced to reduce injury risks and highlight player athleticism. The 2023 Pro Bowl Games featured three flag football games, each lasting 20 minutes and played on 50-yard fields, along with various skills competitions.

The decision to integrate the Pro Bowl into Super Bowl week comes in response to declining viewership and waning interest in the traditional Pro Bowl format. By aligning the Pro Bowl Games with the league's premier event, the NFL aims to enhance player recognition and global engagement. Commissioner Goodell emphasized the objectives: "to celebrate and honor our incredible players, and second is to use our game as a global platform."

This integration also serves as a strategic move to promote flag football ahead of its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The NFL has been actively supporting flag football's growth, recognizing its potential for global expansion and inclusivity. The league's efforts include collaborating with the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) to increase the sport's international profile and participation.

Historically, the Pro Bowl, established in 1951, was traditionally held in Honolulu, Hawaii, until 2012. In recent years, it has been hosted in various locations, including Orlando and Las Vegas. The shift to a flag football format in 2023 marked a significant change, aiming to reduce injury risks and increase player participation.

By integrating the Pro Bowl into Super Bowl week, the NFL anticipates increased player participation, as many athletes are already present for various events and obligations. The move is also expected to boost attendance and viewership, offering fans a consolidated week of football festivities. The intimate setting of the Moscone Center aims to enhance the fan experience, providing closer interaction with players and a more engaging atmosphere.

Aligning the Pro Bowl with Super Bowl week provides a platform to showcase flag football on an international stage, potentially increasing its appeal ahead of the 2028 Olympics. The NFL's commitment to promoting flag football aligns with its broader strategy to expand the sport's reach and inclusivity.

The NFL is evaluating the long-term scheduling of the Pro Bowl Games within Super Bowl week. While the 2026 event is set for Tuesday night, the league remains open to adjustments based on feedback and outcomes. This flexibility indicates the NFL's willingness to adapt and refine its approach to ensure the success of the Pro Bowl Games in their new format.

In summary, the NFL's decision to integrate the Pro Bowl Games into Super Bowl week represents a strategic effort to rejuvenate the all-star event, enhance player recognition, and promote flag football on a global scale. This move reflects the league's commitment to innovation and its responsiveness to evolving fan interests and player safety considerations.