The NFL released the 2018 Pro Bowl rosters Tuesday, and while there were many deserving selections, a few players ought to be outraged over their omissions.
This year proved to be tougher than usual with many close calls, but below are six players who were certainly snubbed from the league's All-Star Game.
Alex Smith, QB, Chiefs
Smith became synonymous with rote, conservative decision-making throughout his career, but this year he broke out of his shell and was in the MVP race for the first half of the season. The veteran quarterback ranks sixth in passing yards, fifth in touchdown passes, first in passer rating, and third in completion percentage, proving he's no longer a game-manager. Narratives are often difficult to change for players well into their careers, but Smith ought to be appalled that he wasn't named to the Pro Bowl for the second consecutive year.
Kevin Byard, S, Titans
Byard is a relative unknown in league circles but he's become one of the NFL's brightest defensive stars during his first two seasons and is tied for second in the league with six interceptions. The 24-year-old has quickly become the anchor of the Titans' secondary and has been a menace to throw against with 14 pass deflections. Ranked as the fourth-best safety by Pro Football Focus, it's only a matter of time before Byard is in consideration for the Pro Bowl on an annual basis.
Tre'Davious White, CB, Bills
White has been sensational for the Bills during his rookie season, allowing the defense to operate without missing a beat after Stephon Gilmore signed with the Patriots last offseason. Selected 27th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, White is often assigned to the opponent's best receiver and has done remarkably well against the NFL's premier talent - with the exception of A.J. Green. With 18 pass deflections, four interceptions, and ranking third on Pro Football Focus' list, White is sure to become a household name.
Marvin Jones, WR, Lions
Jones is one of the league's most electrifying receivers and few players, if any, pose as much intrigue when the ball is in the air. Perpetually underrated, Jones posted 54 receptions for 970 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 18 yards per catch - second only to Jacksonville's Keelan Cole. Jones' ability to separate downfield and win one-on-one battles makes him a matchup nightmare, and it's a shame that he won't be able to showcase his skills in Orlando.
Jason Kelce, C, Eagles
Carson Wentz's emergence as a legitimate MVP candidate before tearing his ACL was one of the stories of the season and received full credit. Kelce, like most offensive linemen, wasn't given enough due for helping Wentz become the franchise quarterback that he was expected to be. An outstanding run-blocker, Kelce improved his pre-snap reads and made Wentz's life in the pocket much easier. Graded as the top center in the league by Pro Football Focus, Kelce ought to be fuming over his omission.
Harrison Smith, S, Vikings
Smith was named to the Pro Bowl in consecutive years and it's puzzling why he was left off the list, despite submitting another standout season. Playing in all 14 games, Smith recorded 64 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and three interceptions while anchoring a ferocious Vikings defense that played a major role in clinching in the NFC North. Smith ranks as Pro Football Focus' top safety and aces the eye test but has somehow left the electorate unimpressed.
