2014 NFL Pro Bowl: Only one of eight selected San Francisco 49ers expected to play

The NFL’s Pro Bowl is annually the most boring of all ‘All-Star’ games, something the league is attempting to change this season.

For the first time in history, the Pro Bowl will not be divided by conference but rather will be determined before the game via a draft. The NFL has touted the game as ‘real-life fantasy football’.

Hopefully the changes bring in more viewership but it’s doubtful many in the Bay Area will be watching as it’s expected only one of eight selected San Francisco 49ers will play in the game.

"Linebacker Ahmad Brooks likely will be the 49ers’ only participant in Sunday’s Pro Bowl, as seven of his teammates are expected to decline their invitations to the NFL’s annual all-star game in Honolulu.Tight end Vernon Davis, running back Frank Gore, left tackle Joe Staley, guard Mike Iupati, defensive tackle Justin Smith and linebackers Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman also were selected last month as the 49ers matched Kansas City with a league-high eight Pro Bowlers."

Both Bowman and Iupati are understandably unable to play after both suffered devastating injuries in San Francisco’s NFC Championship loss to the Seattle Sehawks. The remaining crew probably would prefer to have some time off after an extended playoff run.

Or maybe Patrick Willis just wants to keep eating his ice cream and not be bothered, dammit.