AFL All-Star Games: The History and Legacy of the Pre-Merger Era
Before the modern era of professional football, the American Football League (AFL) established its own tradition of showcasing elite talent through All-Star games. These events served as a critical bridge between the league's early years and its eventual integration into the National Football League (NFL), helping to cement the legacy of the players who defined the era.
The Evolution of the All-Star Format
While the AFL did not host an all-star game following its inaugural 1960 season, the league quickly implemented a system to honor its best athletes. From 1961 through 1969, the league expanded its selection process by adding additional players to the All-League rosters to form two competitive squads.
For the majority of this period, the competition followed a divisional format, pitting the All-Stars from the Eastern Division against those from the Western Division. However, there was a notable exception in 1965, when the format shifted to feature the league champion Buffalo Bills competing against a combined team of all-stars from the remaining AFL franchises.
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The Path to the Pro Bowl
The historical significance of these games extends beyond the AFL's independent years. Both the NFL and the Pro Football Hall of Fame officially recognize AFL All-Star game appearances within their Pro Bowl statistics, ensuring that the achievements of AFL players are preserved in the official record of professional football.
Following the AFL–NFL merger in 1970, the NFL's existing all-star event was rebranded as the AFC-NFC Pro Bowl to reflect the new league structure.
The Final Play of the AFL
The conclusion of the AFL's independent identity was marked by a historic moment on January 17, 1970. Six days after the conclusion of Super Bowl IV, the league held its final All-Star game at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas.
The final play in the history of the AFL was carried out by O.J. Simpson, a rookie running back for the Buffalo Bills, marking the end of an era before the full integration of the two leagues.
Key Facts
- Active Years: All-Star games were held annually from 1961 to 1969.
- Standard Format: Most games featured the Eastern Division vs. the Western Division.
- 1965 Variation: The Buffalo Bills (league champions) played against a team of all-stars.
- Statistical Legacy: AFL All-Star appearances are counted as Pro Bowl statistics by the NFL and Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- Final Game: Held on January 17, 1970, at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration of Games | 1961–1969 |
| Primary Matchup | Eastern Division vs. Western Division |
| Notable Exception | 1965 (Buffalo Bills vs. All-Stars) |
| Post-Merger Name | AFC-NFC Pro Bowl |
| Final Play Participant | O.J. Simpson (Buffalo Bills) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the AFL have an All-Star game in its first year?
No, the AFL did not hold an all-star game after its first season in 1960; the tradition began in 1961.
How was the 1965 All-Star game different from others?
Unlike other years that featured divisional matchups, the 1965 game featured the league champion Buffalo Bills playing against all-stars from the other teams.
Are AFL All-Star games recognized today?
Yes, the NFL and the Pro Football Hall of Fame include these games in their official Pro Bowl statistics.
What happened to the All-Star game after the 1970 merger?
After the merger, the NFL's all-star game was renamed the AFC-NFC Pro Bowl.
Who played the final play in AFL history?
Buffalo Bills rookie running back O.J. Simpson carried the ball on the final play of the AFL's last All-Star game on January 17, 1970.