NFL finally throws in the towel on the Pro Bowl

Key Points:

• NFL players cut during the offseason can return to college play but cannot sign NFL contracts within the same season, nor can teams make future contract agreements with them; this situation arose with undrafted rookie Dae’Quan Wright seeking to return to LSU after spending time with NFL teams.
• NFL owners are expected to finalize a contract extension with Commissioner Roger Goodell in the coming months, aiming to keep him in place through key negotiations on new broadcast deals and a potential 18-game regular season; Goodell's current contract expires in March 2027.
• The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in Washington, D.C., from April 29 to May 1, marking the first time the city hosts the event since 1941, with the National Mall as the primary backdrop.
• The NFL continues to explore adding an 18th regular-season game, but player safety concerns voiced by the NFL Players Association and Commissioner Goodell make the expansion uncertain.
• The NFL and its referees have reached a new agreement ahead of the May 31 expiration of the current deal, including commitments to improve officiating performance and training, but negotiations remain tense with a significant gap in salary increase demands, and replacement officials are being prepared as a contingency.