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NFL Players Most Likely To Reach 1st Pro Bowl In 2016

By Erik Lambert

Aug 19, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 19, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 6, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Cliff Avril (56) against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. The Seahawks defeated the Vikings 38-7. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Cliff Avril (56) against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. The Seahawks defeated the Vikings 38-7. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Cliff Avril (Seattle Seahawks)

It has always felt like Cliff Avril was on the cusp of reaching a Pro Bowl even dating back to his days with the Detroit Lions but just couldn’t quite get over the hump. Five times in his career he’s produced at least eight sacks in a season including nine last year. The potential is still there for him to finally break through, especially playing in front of the best secondary in football. It’s a matter of him finishing enough plays to put up the numbers that will get him noticed.

Another factor that is sure to give Avril an added boost is the presence of Frank Clark. The young defensive end looks like yet another promising talent the Seahawks are developing and if anybody is feeling the pressure from him besides quarterbacks, it’s Avril. Being in his 30s now, he has to know Seattle is looking for the first sign of weakness from him so they can promote the younger guy to the starting job. That added incentive always tends to bring out the best in good players.

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