NFL Boosts Global Popularity with Pro Bowl Flag Football

The league's annual all-star showcase features flag football to drive international growth.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The NFL is using its annual Pro Bowl Games as a platform to promote the growing popularity of flag football globally. The exhibition match between top players from the AFC and NFC features the fast-paced, non-contact version of the sport, which has seen a surge in participation around the world in recent years.

Why it matters

Flag football provides the NFL with an opportunity to introduce the sport to new international audiences and markets, helping to drive the league's global expansion efforts. As the NFL looks to grow its fanbase beyond North America, showcasing the accessibility and excitement of flag football can attract more casual fans and younger demographics to American football.

The details

The Pro Bowl Games will include a flag football competition between AFC and NFC all-star teams, led by star quarterbacks like Dak Prescott and Jalen Hurts. The exhibition match will highlight the speed, skill, and strategy of flag football, which removes the physical contact of traditional tackle football while preserving many of the sport's core elements.

  • The 2026 Pro Bowl Games will take place on February 7, 2026.

The players

Dak Prescott

Dallas Cowboys quarterback and 4-time Pro Bowler.

Jalen Hurts

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and 2-time Pro Bowler.

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What they’re saying

“Flag football is a great way to introduce the sport to new fans around the world. It's fast-paced, exciting, and accessible, which aligns perfectly with our goals for growing the game globally.”

— Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner (NFL.com)

What’s next

The NFL plans to continue featuring flag football competitions at future Pro Bowl events as part of its international expansion strategy.

The takeaway

By showcasing flag football at the Pro Bowl, the NFL is positioning the sport as an accessible gateway to grow its global fanbase, particularly among younger audiences, and drive further international popularity of American football.