Hard Knocks has been an essential part of the NFL season since 2001. The no-holds-barred HBO series follows an NFL team during their training camp. showcasing the highs, lows, and realities of preparing for an NFL season. In 2021, the show was reformatted to feature two seasons - one in training camp and one during the season.
However, full film production is a major ask for teams. Not only can it be disruptive, but it can also be distracting and add unnecessary pressure to a team. With teams being less willing to participate, the NFL implemented a rule that each year, four teams could be mandated to appear on the show. That may need to be the case due to some new revelations.
Teams Unwilling To Appear On "Hard Knocks"
According to multiple reports, HBO initially reached out to the Detroit Lions about appearing on Hard Knocks. The Lions were the team that the training camp season focused on last year. If the Lions accepted, they would become the first team to appear on the show in back-to-back seasons. The reason for this desperation is that teams are apparently especially unwilling to appear on the show this year. Last year, Hard Knocks followed the Arizona Cardinals during the season. However, few teams are willing to work with the broadcasting giant this year.
Furthermore, while the NFL can mandate the Jets, Saints, Commanders, and Bears to appear on the show, even these teams are pushing back about working with HBO. It's likely that the Jets, with new quarterback Aaron Rodgers, would be the preference of HBO. However, the reluctance for teams to participate is likely worrying for HBO. Hard Knocks 2023 would be the first under HBO's new Max banner. Furthermore, there is a bigger reliance on unscripted content as the WGA strike continues. However, it remains to be seen if teams openly defy the NFL on this issue, and what the NFL will do if this happens. This is a developing story and any updates will be here on HotNewHipHop.
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