Best guesses? Anyone? We know that this designation isn’t Kenyan Drake courtesy of Maurice Jones-Drew, based on Jones-Drew’s recent thoughts on the Dolphins’ starting running back.
No, instead, it is Miami Dolphins left tackle Laremy Tunsil who is getting the call as NFL.com’s choice for a first time Pro Bowl selection from the Miami Dolphins. The offensive line positions are difficult to achieve “household name” status — the casual football fan isn’t overly locked into protection schemes or scoop blocks and typically the only time offensive linemen get a call out is when they make a perceived mistake.
But Tunsil has served his time and steadily improved over the course of his first three seasons in Miami — meaning he’s reaching that tipping point where his reputation will warrant him consideration for the all-star event. And unfortunately, reputation is far too big of a variable in the Pro Bowl selection process. Many times you’ll see players who played the season at a lower level than others still get the call — just because of their name and reputation.
It’s how Mike Pouncey managed to secure a Pro Bowl berth in 2018 — even though they play very different positions, there’s no way an argument could be made that Pouncey was a better offensive lineman than Tunsil last year. And with the Pro Bowl only carrying three offensive tackles, Tunsil easily could have warranted a selection.
Instead, Tunsil’s wait continues, although he shouldn’t have to wait much longer.
