Three Buffalo Bills-running back C.J. Spiller, defensive tackle Kyle Williams and safety Jairus Byrd are heading to Honolulu for the Pro Bowl this year, replacing three Baltimore Ravens players, who are preparing for the Feb. 3 Super Bowl.
Spiller, who exploded this past year after taking over for the injured Fred Jackson, will replace Ravens running back Ray Rice. Spiller should’ve been on the original roster over Rice. He started in nine less games than former Rutgers running back, but he still totaled more yards rushing (1,244 to 1,143), more yards per attempt (6.0 to 4.4) and only 19 less receiving yards on 18 less catches.
Williams replaces Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata. Williams recorded five sacks and 46 tackles (27 of which were solo).
He said he is excited to represent the Bills in the Pro Bowl.
“It’s always an honor to represent your team and the city of Buffalo in the Pro Bowl,” he said. “To be recognized by the fans, your peers and the coaches you play against means a lot.”
Byrd was the third addition to the AFC Pro Bowl roster, replacing Ravens safety Ed Reed. He recorded 76 tackles (53 of which were solo), but his abilities as a ball hawk are what earned him the trip to Honolulu. He tied for the AFC lead in interceptions (five) this past year. During his four-year career, he is tied for third in the NFL with 18 picks.
“I’m just really excited and I thank God for the opportunity,” Byrd said. “I’m looking forward to playing in the game and the entire experience because I didn’t get a chance to do so in my rookie year [2009].”
Comments