Posted by bmcintyre at 1/17/08 2:17 p.m.

So that would mean Walter is out for the Pro Bowl, too, right?

Posted by Clare Farnsworth at 1/17/08 3:27 p.m.

Yes, although the league has yet to announce who will take Jones' spot on the NFC squad.

Posted by bmcintyre at 1/17/08 4:28 p.m.

Chad Clifton of the Packers was the first alternate at tackle in the NFC. Bryant McKinnie (Vikings) was the second.

Posted by SteadyHawk at 1/17/08 7:18 p.m.

Is there any chance that Walt will return to his elite LT status after this surgery?

Posted by IDHawkman at 1/18/08 7:45 a.m.

Clare,

How does it work when a pro-bowl selection doesn't go? In other words, do they get credit for being a pro bowler for that year? I know the backup that goes is referred to as a pro bowler. also, "if" kerney decides to go and watch, does he get any of the pro-bowl perks?

I'm curious since he was one of the guys paying for the other defensive players to go. Just wondering if he still gets the recognition and the room, perks, etc.

Posted by Clare Farnsworth at 1/18/08 9:45 a.m.

Hey Hawkman. Yes, players who are voted to the Pro Bowl but don't play in the game still get that "Pro Bowl" designation and credit. This happens every year -- it's how Hasselbeck got to his first Pro Bowl, because Favre didn't play. There are first, second and third alternates that fill in as the top vote-getters drop out.

It's up to the player whether he still goes to the game or not. Some do. Others, especially those coming off surgeries, will pass to concentrate on their rehab. If they go, they still get to stay at the resort where they house the players and attend all the parties and functions.

I haven't heard if Kerney and Jones will still go. But Walter has always turned this into a family reunion, where his wife and kids as well as their families all go to Honolulu for the week.