Deion Sanders critical of NFL Pro Bowl participants

NFL legend Deion Sanders shared his thoughts on the current state of the Pro Bowl, with harsh criticism of the players participating. The Hall of Fame defensive back criticized the effort and competitive spirit of the exhibition game, stating that his era had players with pride in the annual showcase.

Deion Sanders not happy with Pro Bowl

“Lord help me. I’m watching the NFL Pro Bowl and I remember when we were so proud and appreciative of that accolade,” stated Sanders. “We went to Hawaii to prove we were more than worthy so we competed at practice and in the game. I wanted you to know that PRIME was PRIME! What happened and when?”

Having been to eight Pro Bowls during his playing career, Sanders is certainly qualified to speak about the NFL’s version of an All-Star weekend. The game has become more and more of a loosely structured game as players have an increasing interest in avoiding injury. Many players and fans now view the game as “meaningless” and a possible avenue to injure themselves while playing for nothing.

This season was no exception, as tackling was almost entirely a defensive player wrapping or grabbing the ball-carrier’s arm or jersey and the play being blown dead. While the game still produced memorable moments, like brothers Stefon and Trevon Diggs playing against each other, some fans and at least one Hall of Fame player didn’t appreciate the game.

Sanders’ comments seem to indicate that he felt the players selected to the Pro Bowl were not respecting the honor the way he felt they should be. Fans pointed to an iconic moment in the game’s history where linebacker Sean Taylor delivered a crushing hit on a fake punt attempt to a punter.

While most players would agree that avoiding injury in the game is one of the most important overall goals, Sanders clearly wants players to at least turn up the intensity and try to play harder. Dallas Cowboys rookie Micah Parsons brought some of that youthful energy he displayed all season long to the game, rushing after quarterbacks and shoving ball-carriers to the ground. Although he didn’t cross any lines with his fellow stars, some fans were critical of his tackling attempts as they were out of place among the rest of the game’s pace.