What's Happening?
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts have been added to the 2026 NFL Pro Bowl Games roster. This marks Flacco's first Pro Bowl selection in his 18-year career. Flacco, who started the 2025 season with the Cleveland Browns, was traded to the Bengals after starting four games. He filled in as a starter for the Bengals due to injuries to Joe Burrow and Jake Browning, throwing for 1,636 yards, 13 touchdowns, and four interceptions in six games. Jalen Hurts, who led the Eagles to an 11-6 record and a Wild Card playoff appearance, was initially a fifth alternate for the Pro Bowl. He replaces Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. The original AFC quarterbacks, including Josh Allen and Drake
Maye, are unavailable due to injuries or Super Bowl commitments.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of Joe Flacco and Jalen Hurts in the Pro Bowl highlights the impact of injuries on the NFL's all-star event. With several top quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Bo Nix sidelined, the Pro Bowl roster reflects the league's depth and the necessity for teams to adapt to player availability. Flacco's selection underscores his enduring presence in the league and his ability to step up when needed, while Hurts' inclusion emphasizes his continued growth and leadership in Philadelphia. This situation also raises questions about player safety and the physical demands of the NFL season, as injuries have significantly altered the Pro Bowl lineup.
What's Next?
As the Pro Bowl approaches, the NFL may consider revising its player selection process to better accommodate injury replacements and alternates. The league could also explore changes to its schedule or rules to reduce the risk of injuries, particularly for high-impact positions like quarterback. Teams will continue to monitor player health closely, especially with the Super Bowl and offseason activities on the horizon. The Pro Bowl itself will serve as a showcase for emerging talent and a platform for players like Flacco and Hurts to demonstrate their skills on a national stage.
