Patriots Pro Bowl selections include Brady, Gronk, Slater and first-timer James Develin

patriots.com

James Develin has had an interesting ride to the NFL.

The former engineering major at Brown University has spent time in the Arena Football League, the United Football League, the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad and currently the New England Patriots.

While Develin may not get a huge amount of touches or even recognition, the fullback has been a major part in the Patriots offense, playing 29.9 percent of snaps this year. He blocks, clears paths for the running backs and is a force in the backfield.

He is also the Patriots’ first fullback to be selected to the Pro Bowl since Sam Cunningham in 1978.

Quarterback Tom Brady earned his 13th Pro Bowl nod overall, setting a franchise record and passing Pro Football Hall of Famer John Hannah. Brady currently leads the league in completions with 346 and passing yards with 4,163, which have helped him earn the honor for the ninth straight time.

Tight end Rob Gronkowski just notched his fourth 1,000-yard season after a monster game against the Pittsburgh Steelers this past Sunday. He leads all tight ends in receiving yards with 1,017 and yards per reception with 15.9, to help him earn his fifth Pro Bowl selection.

Special Teamer Matthew Slater has only played in seven games this year while dealing with a hamstring injury, but when he’s available, he plays with such integrity and devotion. Slater has now earned a Pro Bowl selection for the seventh time.

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