DeAngelo Williams, Linval Joseph two of the players who qualify as Pro Bowl snubs
We asked the Paste BN NFL staff to complete the following sentence, "The biggest Pro Bowl snub was …" Their responses:
JARRETT BELL
Linval Joseph. How about some love for the big fella in the middle of the Vikings defense? Joseph has arguably been the NFL's best run-stuffer this season, a key cog for a unit that continued to make strides as Minnesota emerged as a likely playoff team. It's easy to overlook guys like Joseph, a sixth-year vet, because he doesn't have the sack numbers that other D-tackles compile in three-technique roles. But he's essential nonetheless. And he has some close company getting left off the team. Only one Viking, Adrian Peterson, made the team. Yet in addition to Joseph, cases could also be made for outside linebacker Anthony Barr and safety Harrison Smith.
CHRIS D’AMICO
DeAngelo Williams. The Steelers incredibly haven’t missed a beat in their running game, even with the loss of Le’Veon Bell. Williams is a big reason. LeSean McCoy won’t shake my hand with this opinion, but I think Williams deserved a spot ahead of him. McCoy was a non-factor for most of the first half of the season. Would also have voted for Williams ahead of Rams rookie RB Todd Gurley. Runner-up: Sean Lee, Cowboys LB. Rough years in Dallas, but Lee showed he is one of the best at his position when healthy.
TOM PELISSERO
It has to be Jaguars receiver Allen Robinson, who’s tied for the NFL lead with 13 touchdown catches. Also: Injuries cost them time, but it’s silly the Vikings’ Linval Joseph and Harrison Smith both got left off the NFC defense.
LORENZO REYES
He may not have the sexiest numbers, but Vikings safety Harrison Smith is one of the premier do-it-all defensive backs in the NFL. He uses a versatile blend of size and athleticism to help in run defense, bring pressure and cover pass catchers. Again, 56 tackles, two passes defended, one sack and one interception won't get many fans excited. But if you really want to see the impact Smith can have, look at Minnesota's last four games, three of which he missed with hamstring and knee injuries. Two of them were losses and the unit simply doesn't look nearly as confident as it did when he was healthy.