The NFL’s 2025 Pro Bowl selection process has left several standout performers on the outside looking in, sparking discussions about the selection criteria and recognition of exceptional individual achievements.
Selection System Overview
With only 88 spots split between AFC and NFC conferences, the Pro Bowl selection process combines fan votes (33.3%), player votes (33.3%), and coach votes (33.3%). This limited availability inevitably leads to difficult omissions.
Major Snubs of 2025
Patrick Mahomes’ Surprising Absence
Despite leading his team to a 15-1 record, Mahomes missed selection due to statistics below his usual stellar standards. This marks a notable exclusion for the Chiefs’ quarterback.
Defensive Stars Overlooked
- Danielle Hunter (Texans, DE): NFL-leading 90 QB pressures and 19.3% pressure rate
- Kerby Joseph (Lions, S): League-leading 9 interceptions, NFL’s highest-rated defensive back (90.7 PFF grade)
Offensive Standouts Left Out
- Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers, QB): Led NFC South with impressive yardage and touchdown numbers
- James Cook (Bills, RB): NFL-leading 17 touchdowns
- Kyren Williams (Rams, RB): 1,299 rushing yards, 14 touchdowns
- Brian Thomas Jr. (Jaguars, WR): 1,179 yards, 10 touchdowns
- Jonnu Smith (Dolphins, TE): 828 yards, 7 touchdowns
Additional Notable Exclusions
- Cooper DeJean (Eagles, CB): Exceptional slot corner performance
- Kaden Elliss (Falcons, LB): Versatile defensive presence
- Zach Allen (Broncos, DL): Interior defensive line pressure leader (65 QB pressures)
Detroit Lions Representation
Selected Players
Alternates
Including Sam LaPorta, Kerby Joseph, and David Montgomery among eleven total alternates, showcasing team depth.
Impact and Analysis
The 2025 Pro Bowl selections highlight the inherent challenge in recognizing NFL talent within roster constraints. While statistics often drive the narrative, factors like team success and player reputation influence final selections.
The snubs this year particularly emphasize exceptional individual performances that didn’t translate to Pro Bowl recognition. Players like Hunter and Joseph demonstrated elite-level play by leading key statistical categories, yet missed initial selection.
The 2025 Pro Bowl selection process reinforces the subjective nature of individual recognition in team sports. While the 88-player limit creates inevitable exclusions, the performances of these overlooked players remain noteworthy. Their achievements, though unrecognized by Pro Bowl selection, have significantly impacted their teams’ success throughout the season.
