National Football League

2017 Pro Bowl will feature dodgeball

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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The NFL announced today that it will induct dodgeball into the festivities at the annual Pro Bowl.

According to the NFL communications department, the league has agreed to spice up the Pro Bowl with some “flare.” On Monday, sides have determined that adding another of America’s favorite pasttime into the equation: dodgeball. It’s a favorite among physical education classes and it’s a regular hit with some adult leagues. The NFL took advantage of this.

For starters, the Pro Bowl hasn’t been a must-watch event, and not just for the fans. The players, too, have given the event a thumbs down. After all, the offseason has just kicked in for some rookies and veterans alike. For the other players, the Pro Bowl is just a few days before the Super Bowl, so attending the Pro Bowl is out of the question. Last year, for instance, Cam Newton turned down his invitation because he was a participant in Super Bowl 50.

Also, according to ESPN, the 2016 Pro Bowl was one for the record book. Out of the nearly 1,700 players representing the league, only 86 were invited. That number is overshadowed, though, by the alternates, of which clocked in at 133, the highest number in the history of the Pro Bowl. And despite the “prize money” at stake for being on the winning team, many NFL all-stars decline to participate due to the lackluster appeal of the Pro Bowl.

But let’s jump back into the objective of adding dodgeball to a roster of a fading event that received a 5.0 rating in 2016. It’s definitely not a bad idea, one that could draw the attention of the NFL’s younger players. Even though the case, some notable veterans will also partake, including defensive legends Ray Lewis and Charles Woodson. Some players they should consider recruiting for their dodgeball squads include Tyreek Hill (elusiveness) and Patrick Peterson (defensive contributions).

The NFL may no longer be the No Fun League.