For the first time since 2000, the Patriots did not have multiple players voted into the Pro Bowl.
The NFL announced the rosters for the new-look Pro Bowl on Wednesday night, and for the first time since 2000, the Patriots only had one player voted in.
Outside Linebacker Matthew Judon was named to his fourth straight Pro Bowl and will be the only Patriot participating as of right now — the team could have more representation when alternates are selected.
Judon is putting together his best season in his second year in New England, posting a team and career-high 14.5 sacks, a number that ranks second in the NFL behind San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa. Along with his 14.5 sacks, Judon ranks ninth on the Patriots with 50 tackles and first on the team in tackles for loss with 12.
Among the notable snubs from the Patriots roster is special teamer Matthew Slater — who has been named to the Pro Bowl in ten of his 15 NFL seasons. Slater entered the final week of fan voting leading his position, however, he saw that lead disappear with Jets’ special teamer Justin Hardee stealing his spot.
Also among the snubs is second-year running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who has broken out in the absence of Damien Harris. Stevenson has accrued 1,295 all-purpose yards with 6 touchdowns, playing in all 14 of New England’s games this season.
Linebacker Josh Uche is also among the snubs on New England’s roster. Uche, another breakout player, has seen a big boost to his game in his third year in New England posting a career-high 10.5 sacks, ranking second on the team behind Judon.
While Judon is currently the only Patriots’ player named to the roster, any of Stevenson, Slater, or Uche could be named to the festivities later in the season either as an injury replacement or as a replacement for an opting-out player.
Unlike in years past, the Pro Bowl will not be played as one game at the end of the week and instead has been rebranded to ‘The Pro Bowl Games’.
Throughout the week, the league’s biggest stars will participate in different football and non-football skills competitions with the week culminating in an AFC-NFC seven-on-seven flag football game. The first-ever Pro Bowl Games will take place the weekend of Feb. 5 in Las Vegas.