John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
The Kansas City Chiefs will be sending eight players to the Pro Bowl, and that says a lot about the overall talent level of their team.
The game will be played in Honolulu, Hawaii on Sunday, January 26th, and even though its mostly become a running joke of sorts; at the very least being selected is still an honor.
The game has become putrid and uninspiring, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that these eight players have been voted the best in the league by their peers and the fans. It’s a meaningful accomplishment for safety Eric Berry, according to Reid Ferrin of KCChiefs.com:
“It’s a big honor,” Berry said. “Because, it’s fans voting, coaches voting and players voting. Right now, while I really appreciate the honor, we’re just focused on San Diego and continuing to chase the ultimate team goal, a championship.”
Both Hali and Houston gave some credit right back to their teammates, and that’s always great to see.
“I’m honored to be voted in,” Hali said. “This honor is an acknowledgment of our team and the group effort we put in. The coaches do a great job of putting us in positions to make plays and this is another way that’s being recognized.”
“It’s a great accomplishment,” Houston said. “Anytime you can make it there, that says a lot about you and your teammates. I know I didn’t do it alone; I had help from my teammates.”
Those two alone have been a huge part of the Chiefs’ defensive dominance this season. Even though we haven’t seen him for a few weeks because of an injury, Houston has 44 tackles, 11 sacks, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries on the season. Hali has been just as good, notching 46 tackles, 11 sacks, four forced fumbles, two recoveries and an interception.
Charles is arguably the biggest star of the group, as his play this season has garnered him some MVP consideration. Charles has rushed for 1,287 yards, averaging 5.0 yards a carry, and he’s ran the ball in for 12 touchdowns. He’s also caught 70 passes for 693 yards and seven touchdowns.
He’s without a doubt a worthy Pro Bowl player, and if the Chiefs want to make a Super Bowl run; he’ll have to be huge reason why.
Speaking of, Albert does a good job of keeping the Pro Bowl in perspective, and what he had to say is a note worth ending on.
“I’m proud of the accomplishment,” Albert said. “But at the same time, I hope we’re playing in New York, the week after the Pro Bowl; that’s my goal.”
Note: All quotes according to Reid Ferrin of KCCHiefs.com