The Pro Bowl selection process obviously is an imperfect science. Some who clearly deserve it, like Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman, are left off the roster. Others are voted in because of name recognition and past performances.
It is what it is.
Green Bay Packers center Jeff Saturday is one of those controversial selections this season. He had five Pro Bowls on his resume before 2012, but he was benched last week in favor of Evan Dietrich-Smith. The change came in an effort to improve the running game. Saturday, a 14-year veteran, had played well in the passing game, but he just doesn't have the same drive on running downs.
"Obviously it's always an honor," Saturday told ESPNWisconsin.com reporter Jason Wilde. "Anytime you get to go to the Pro Bowl, it is an honor and you appreciate everyone -- the players, coaches and fans -- that voted for you. As an offensive lineman, it is nice to get the award.
"I am disappointed for Josh Sitton; I think he should be there. It is disappointing for me, for him. I would love to be able to pass it to him."
Packers coach Mike McCarthy stepped in to defend his center's selection.
"Proud of all three guys who went to Pro Bowl. With Saturday, we won't apologize for any kind of honor like that," McCarthy said Thursday in his news conference.
On the flip side, Bears linebacker Lance Briggswas left in the cold despite having a team-high 96 tackles on one of the NFL's best defenses.
Sherman said Wednesday that he's more concerned with being named All-Pro.
Again, the voting process has its flaws. It is what it is.
Follow Kareem Copeland on Twitter @kareemcopeland.
