NFL replaces Pro Bowl with weeklong 'The Pro Bowl Games,' Rihanna to headline 2023 Super Bowl halftime, Patriots' Folk sets NFL record with field-goal, Newton & McCarron possible QBs for Patriots, and more football news.
NFL replaces Pro Bowl with weeklong 'The Pro Bowl Games'
The NFL is replacing the Pro bowl with "The Pro Bowl Games." The new concept will feature a weeklong series of events that include both football and non-football skills competitions. The games will include AFC and NFC players.
A major change will be a flag football game that replaces the full-contact showcase that started back in 1951, ESPN reported. The NFL says they've taken a lot of feedback from GMs, coaches, and players who want to move away from the traditional tackle football game, as many players are concerned about getting hurt. In that regard, the quality of play has often been criticized as players try to avoid injury. A flag football game could increase competition, the NFL believes.
The 2023 Games will be held in Las Vegas, and the flag football game is set for Allegiant Stadium on Feb. 5.
Rihanna named headline performer for 2023 Super Bowl halftime show
The NFL announced on Sunday that Rihanna will be the headlining performer for the 2023 Super Bowl halftime show. Rihanna also made the announcement on Sunday, posting a photo of herself holding the football with no caption. No word on whether Rihanna will have a special guest joining her on stage.
Super Bowl LVII (57) is scheduled for Feb. 12, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona, CBSSports.
Patriots' Folk sets NFL record with field goal
New England Patriots kicker Nick Folk made a record-setting field goal during Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens. The field goal was his 57th consecutive one under 50 yards. Folk joined the Patriots in 2019, and is 69-for-73 on field goals under 50 yards and 8-for-13 on 50-plus-yard attempts, NBC Sports reported. Folk has converted 87 of his 95 extra point attempts.
Cam Newton, AJ McCarron possible free agent for Patriots
It appears that the New England Patriots will be without quarterback Matt Jones for multiple games after he suffered a left ankle injury on Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, NESN reported.
As veteran Brian Hoyer takes over as starter while Jones is out, New England is reportedly eyeing a few free agents as a possible primary backup for Hoyer.
At the top of the rumored list is former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, 33, who last played with the team in 2021. However, Newton allegedly still sees himself as a starter and it's highly questionable as to whether he would accept the backup job.
Another contender is A.J. McCarron, 32, who last played with the Houston Texans in 2020. Although a major asset at Alabama, McCarron's star failed to shine as anything other than a backup in the NFL.
Brady's tablet tantrum leads to NFL memo warning to all teams
Last week's tablet-throwing tantrum by Tom Brady, in which he broke not one but two Microsoft tablets after throwing fits on the bench, led the NFL to send a memo to all thirty-two teams, USA Today reported.
In the memo, the NFL warned teams that they will be penalized and fined if any player breaks a tablet. The NFL has a sponsorship deal with Microsoft.