Another disappointing season for the Buffalo Bills ended a few weeks ago, but the team gets a small delayed celebration after a couple of their players were named to the AFC Pro Bowl team in the wake of Baltimore’s victory over the Patriots on Sunday.
The Bills announced Monday that running back C.J. Spiller and defensive tackle Kyle Williams will each be heading to the land of luaus. Spiller replaces Ray Rice while Williams will be taking the spot previously held by Haloti Ngata.
“It’s always an honor to represent your team and the city of Buffalo in the Pro Bowl,” said Williams, who is going to the Pro Bowl for the second time. “To be recognized by the fans, your peers and the coaches you play against means a lot. Our goal next year, as it is every season, is to still be competing at this time. It would be great for us, the fans and the city of Buffalo if we’d be able to watch the Pro Bowl next year as we’re continuing our journey for a Super Bowl.”
Spiller’s making his Pro Bowl debut and it’s a well-earned trip even if it comes as a replacement. He finished eighth in the NFL in rushing despite only carrying the ball 12.9 times per game, the fewest of any running back ranked in the top 15 runners in the league. Assuming his role grows under new coach Doug Marrone, Spiller might not have to wait so long for future calls to the league’s celebration of its individual stars.