The NFL Pro Bowl Games return to Orlando in 2024, which will occur at the end of the season, smack dab between the Conference Title games and the Super Bowl. Technically, this is the first time this event will appear in Orlando @ Camping World Stadium, but the Pro Bowl was held in Orlando from 2016 to 2019. 2020 was cancelled due to the pandemic, and then in 2021 it moved to Vegas @ Allegiant Stadium, home of the Raiders.
Last year was the first year of the newly formed "Pro Bowl Games" this is different than the AFC vs NFC concept that we had been used to for years. A concept that was pretty simple, it was a football game played by the best from each conference. Except, the dip in quality over the years ruined the game, and fans grew tired of watching players go at half speed. Insert the Pro Bowl Games.
As explained online:
The Pro Bowl skills competitions are eight different competitions that players from each conference will compete in. They are a mix of football-based skill competitions and games where players can show off other skills.
You can read more, here.
Here's a quote from today's presser on this as well:
“We’re excited to bring this reimagined version of the Pro Bowl here,” said Matthew Shapiro, the NFL’s Vice President of Event Strategy. “The last time the fans here in Orlando saw the Pro Bowl, it was a bit of a different format. We shifted last year, as many know to a flag football game and a real focus on skills and the players overall. A weeklong celebration of football.”
“We are proud to see this week-long celebration returned to our community,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. “The first four years of Pro Bowls in Orlando drove significant economic impact estimated at $4 to $5 million with 39,000 room nights.”
You can read the full article from Matt Murschel @ OrlandoSentinel.com
Photo: Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images