This format only lasted for three seasons before it reverted to the conference team format from the 2016 to 2021 NFL seasons;[14] this period included the cancellation of the 2021 Pro Bowl due to the COVID-19 pandemic (teams were still selected and players were still recognized as Pro Bowl selectees).
[16] Starting with the 2023 Pro Bowl after the 2022 NFL season, the NFL again changed the format; instead of playing an exhibition game, the Pro Bowl was converted to series of skill competitions that culminated in a non-contact flag football game.
[17] Pro Bowl selections are made by a cumulative vote by three groups that hold equal weight: coaches, players, and fans.
[18] Before the institution of the Pro Bowl Games in 2023, the players with the most votes were named starters, while the remainder of the selectees were reserves.
The Lions' first selections in the inaugural Pro Bowl in 1951 were Cloyce Box, Lou Creekmur, Don Doll, Thurman McGraw, and Doak Walker.
[25] The most recent Pro Bowl selections for the Lions were Brian Branch, Taylor Decker, Jack Fox, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jared Goff, Frank Ragnow, Penei Sewell, and Amon-Ra St. Brown for the 2025 Pro Bowl Games.