Don’t tell some NFL players that making the Pro Bowl isn’t an honor. For years, many players have skipped the glorified exhibition game, but for others, it’s much more personal.
On Wednesday, four Washington Commanders made the Pro Bowl, including two first-timers in wide receiver Terry McLaurin and special-teams star Jeremy Reaves. Punter Tress Way and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen made their second Pro Bowl.
One of the coolest videos you’ll see around the NFL world occurred Wednesday when Washington head coach Ron Rivera informed each of his four players they made the Pro Bowl.
Allen, McLaurin and Way were grateful. But when Way and McLaurin found out Reaves made it, they were much happier than they were for themselves.
As for Reaves, he wasn’t quite sure why he was being summoned to meet the head coach. For a player who has been cut multiple times, you take nothing for granted.
When Reaves entered Rivera’s office, he looked at the coach, and there was an awkward moment of silence before Rivera said, “Congratulations, you’re the special teams guy. You’re the starter.”
Reaves stared at Rivera, ducked his head and turned around, wiping tears away. The former undrafted safety from South Alabama shared an emotional embrace with Rivera, who told Reaves that his mother would be proud.
get your tissues ready 🥹
watch @RiverboatRonHC tell the guys they made the Pro Bowl pic.twitter.com/7rpj99EIkZ
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) December 22, 2022
Way comes back into the room to congratulate Reaves, and the two share a handshake and a long hug.
If you want to know why players love Ron Rivera, look no further. This was an awesome moment.
Congrats to Reaves, Allen, McLaurin and Way on being named to the Pro Bowl and to Daron Payne and Montez Sweat on being named alternates.
