The Associated Press publishes every January the All-Pro team based on the recently-concluded regular season. And while much of the list is aimed at sparking debate and/or percolating #hottaeks, plenty of players have bonuses, escalators, and/or incentives riding on this honor.
Currently, the AP is exploring (#asexpected) the possibility of “modernizing” the All-Pro team. A source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that input has been requested from all AP voters for potential changes to the structure of the roster.
The All-Pro offense consists of one quarterback, two running backs, a fullback, two receivers, a tight end, a center, two guards, and a tackle. (Curiously, the communication from the AP to the voters did not mention the fullback position, which means either that it already has been dumped or that the position was accidentally omitted, which maybe confirms that it should be dumped.)
On defense, the All-Pro team has two defensive ends, two defensive tackles, two outside linebackers, two inside linebackers, two cornerbacks, and two safeties. The roster also has a kicker, a punter, and a kick returner.
Possible additions to the team include a slot receiver, a nickel back, a pass rusher, and a special-teams player. Voters have been invited to provide input and reasoning through the end of June. Put some of your own input and reasoning below, if you want.
Here’s one idea: The Associated Press should ensure that players get votes at only one position. Last year, Khalil Mack won a first-team spot both as a defensive end and as a linebacker. The easy fix would be to publish a ballot that specifies the position played by the players from each team who possibly will get votes.