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NFL Pro Bowl Games 2026: New Skill-Based Format

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 2:16 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

The Evolution of the Pro Bowl: NFL Pro Bowl Games

The NFL's annual all-star game, now officially branded as the NFL Pro Bowl Games, underwent a significant transformation in recent years, moving away from traditional head-to-head competition towards a more skill-based, entertaining format. This change, aimed at addressing player safety concerns and boosting fan engagement, will be fully realized in the 2026 edition. The 2026 Pro Bowl Games, held on Sunday, January 25th, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. ET, will showcase the league's brightest stars in a series of skills challenges and flag football games. This format emphasizes athleticism and fun, providing a unique spectacle for fans. Viewers in the US can tune in on ESPN and stream the action on ESPN+ and the ESPN app. The shift towards skills competitions aims to minimize the risk of injury associated with full-contact football while still highlighting the extraordinary talents of the league's best players.

Super Bowl LXI: The Ultimate Championship Battle

The culmination of the 2026 NFL season will be Super Bowl LXI, scheduled for Sunday, February 9th, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. ET. This highly anticipated event pits the champions of the National Football Conference (NFC) and the American Football Conference (AFC) against each other in a battle for the coveted Lombardi Trophy. The location for Super Bowl LXI has yet to be officially announced as of January 31st, 2026, but speculation points towards New Orleans, Louisiana, or Santa Clara, California, both cities with modern stadiums and proven track records of hosting successful Super Bowls. The event isn't just about the game itself; it's a cultural phenomenon, featuring elaborate halftime shows, high-profile advertising, and a massive economic impact on the host city. Fans can watch Super Bowl LXI on CBS and stream it via Paramount+, the CBS app, and NFL+ (with a subscription).

Expanding Global Reach: How to Watch NFL Games Internationally

The NFL's popularity extends far beyond the borders of the United States. Recognizing this global appeal, the league has invested heavily in expanding its international reach and making games accessible to fans worldwide. The NFL is broadcast in over 200 countries and territories, with dedicated broadcasting partnerships and streaming options tailored to different regions.

For Canadian Viewers: TSN and RDS remain the primary broadcasters for NFL games in Canada. TSN provides comprehensive coverage of both regular season and playoff matchups, while RDS caters to French-speaking audiences. Additionally, NFL+ and DAZN offer streaming options for Canadian fans.

International Options: Beyond Canada, fans can generally access NFL games through local broadcasting agreements. Fans are encouraged to check their local television listings for specific channels and broadcast times. NFL+ continues to expand its international availability, providing access to live games, replays, and exclusive content. The NFL's commitment to international growth is also evident in its International Series, featuring regular-season games played in London, Mexico City, and potentially other locations in the future.

The 2026 NFL Season: Key Dates at a Glance

The 2026 NFL season is structured around three key phases:

• Regular Season: Kicking off in September 2026 and extending through December 2026, the regular season consists of 17 games per team, showcasing intense competition and establishing the contenders for the playoffs.
• Playoffs: The playoff picture begins to take shape in January 2026, with a series of elimination games leading to the AFC and NFC Championship games.
• Super Bowl LXI: The grand finale on February 9th, 2026, will determine the NFL champion and conclude another exciting season.

As the 2026 season approaches, fans can anticipate a season filled with thrilling games, innovative entertainment, and expanded accessibility for viewers around the globe. The league's continued commitment to evolving the game, while preserving its core values, ensures that the NFL will remain a dominant force in the world of sports for years to come.