On Tuesday, the NFL announced the official rosters for the 2012 NFL Pro Bowl. San Francisco 49ers fans expected more than a couple players to make the roster, and they shouldn't be disappointed with the haul. After stellar seasons, all of Justin Smith, Patrick Willis, Carlos Rogers and Joe Staley made the roster as starters. On top of that, Dashon Goldson, Frank Gore, David Akers and Andy Lee were named as reserves.
Justin Smith has been ridiculously good this season, essentially winning the 49ers a couple of games, including his big forced fumble against the Philadelphia Eagles. Willis is the best linebacker in the league and always deserves the honor, and Rogers has had easily the best season of his career. Fans of his old team, the Washington Redskins, were happy to see him go due to the fact that he had problems holding onto interceptions. Now he's caught plenty, and will represent the 49ers in the Pro Bowl.
Staley is somewhat of a different story, his season has been up and down, but he's put together some very impressive games. Almost all of the significant pressure coming to Alex Smith has been from the opposite side, due largely in part to strong play from Staley and Mike Iupati.
It's good to see Gore get another one, and good to see Goldson recognized as a reserve after playing extremely well, picking off as many passes as Rogers. The biggest issue with the players who were actually selected is the fact that Lee and Akers are reserves and not starters. Lee is far and away the best punter in the NFC currently, and Akers just broke the record for most field goals in a season.
Also of particular note are the myriad of 49ers named as alternates in case other players can't make it. linebackers NaVorro Bowman and Ahmad Brooks,special teamer Blake Costanzo, tight end Vernon Davis, center Jonathan Goodwin, guard Mike Iupati, defensive tackle Ray McDonald, fullback Bruce Miller, safety Donte Whitner and return specialist Ted Ginn Jr.
Of course, there's the possibility that none of these players will make it, as the 49ers have solid chance to make the Super Bowl!