2018 Pro Bowl

Background

Host selection process

Side events

Game format

Rule changes

• Forty-four players were assigned to each team, up from 43 in 2016.
• The two-minute warning that was given in the first and third quarters in previous years was eliminated, and the ball did not change hands after the first and third quarters.
• The coin toss determined which team was awarded possession first. There were no kickoffs; the ball was placed on the 25-yard line at the start of each half and after scoring plays.
• Defenses were now permitted to play cover two and press coverage. Prior to 2014, only man coverage was allowed, except for goal line situations.
• A 38-second/25-second play clock was used instead of the usual 40-second/25-second clock, and up from 35-second/25-second clock in 2016.
• Replay reviews will be allowed; previously there was replay in the Pro Bowl only when new equipment tests were being conducted.
• There are no intentional grounding rules.
• Only defensive ends and tackles may rush on passing plays, but those must be on the same side of the ball. The defense is not permitted to blitz.
• All blindside blocks and blocks below the waist are illegal.
• A tight end and running back must be in every formation.
• No more than two wide receivers on either side of the ball.
• Deep middle safety must be aligned inside the hash marks.
• Play is stopped the moment a defender wraps his arms around the ball carrier.

AFC rosters

Special teams

NFC rosters

Defense

Special teams

Broadcasting

Cheerleaders