NFL Pro Bowl 2014: Mid-season AFC roster projections
By Josh Sanchez
Wide Receivers
Antonio Brown, Pittsburgh Steelers — On an offense that has been dreadful, Brown is a shining star. Brown has provided some of the most mind-blowing catches in the league this season and he’s the only reason the Steelers have remained competitive in a number of their games. To top it all off, he leads the AFC with 56 catches through the first eight weeks.
A.J. Green, Cincinnati Bengals — Green averages an incredible 16 yards per catch and he’s right in the discussion as a top three wideout in the league. With 734 receiving yards and five touchdowns, Green is the guy that helps the Bengals offense strive.
Wes Welker, Denver Broncos — Welker is continuing to be the trusty wide receiver that he has been throughout the past few years. With 50 catches, 555 yards and an AFC leading nine touchdown catches, you have to include Welker on the Pro Bowl roster.
Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos — It’s hard not to include two Broncos receivers with their inflated stats thanks to Manning, but you can’t deny Thomas based on what he has been able to do. While Welker holds it down on the inside, Thomas presents a threat on the outside that demands attention from opposing secondaries. He enters the second half of the year with 48 catches, 685 yards and six touchdowns.
Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts — Wayne’s stats earn him a place on the mid-season roster, but he’s unfortunately out for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL. He won’t get the recognition he deserves for the hot start to the year when the season is over.