The number of rejections for the 2026 Pro Bowl is growing. Justin Fields (New York Jets) and C.J. Stroud (Houston Texans) are joining the list.

The Pro Bowl traditionally takes place before the Super Bowl and showcases the best NFL players in their respective positions before the duel between the two best teams of the season.

That’s the actual definition. At the moment, there is a veritable flood of rejections. Players have to be replaced due to injuries or participation in the Super Bowl.

But enthusiasm for the event does not seem to be universal. Justin Fields of the New York Jets and C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans are two more AFC quarterbacks who have declined to participate, as has now been announced. And they cite the same reason.

Pro Bowl 2026: Fields and Stroud prioritize differently

Justin Fields is – once again – at a crossroads in his career. He signed a two-year contract with the New York Jets, but was immediately benched in his first season. It is unclear what will happen next.

Accordingly, the QB has decided to focus on his offseason program instead of attending the Pro Bowl. A general nomination for sporting reasons is surprising anyway. After all, Fields was 2-7 as the Jets’ starter and completed only 62.7 percent of his passes. C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans is doing the same. He, too, would rather focus on proper preparation than attend the event. Stroud is fighting for a new, potentially lucrative contract. He has also been the subject of increasing criticism recently. NFL insider Aaron Wilson speculates that the Pro Bowl has now degenerated into a glorified show event, which may also have influenced their decisions.