Greg Olsen, TE, third Pro Bowl selection: He ranks second in the NFL among tight ends with 71 receptions and first with 992 receiving yards, which ranks 12th in the NFL among all pass-catchers. Eight more yards and he’d become the first tight end in NFL history to have 1,000 yards receiving in three consecutive seasons. Olsen simply is one of the best all-around tight ends in the league.
Luke Kuechly, LB, fourth Pro Bowl selection: He hasn’t played in the past four games since suffering a concussion, and likely will be shut down for final two games to promote his long-term health despite being out of the concussion protocol. That likely will keep him from playing in this game. Kuechly still leads Carolina in tackles with 102 and is considered one of the best, if not the best, middle linebackers in the NFL.
Thomas Davis, LB, second Pro Bowl selection: He’s finally getting the recognition he has deserved for years. He made his first Pro Bowl last season when the Panthers had a 15-1 regular-season record, and his overall numbers this year aren’t much different despite a 6-8 record. He’s second on the team with 92 tackles to go with 2.5 sacks and three interceptions. At 33, he still can do it all.
Mike Tolbert, FB, third Pro Bowl selection: Tolbert made the team for the third time in four seasons, primarily because few teams have a true fullback. He seems to have been grandfathered in at this position. Statistically, he’s rushed for 87 yards and no touchdowns and has caught 10 passes for 72 yards receiving with one touchdown.
SNUBS
Kurt Coleman, SS: He was snubbed last season when he led the Carolina defense with seven interceptions, and he was snubbed again this year despite having more tackles (84) and taking on a bigger role as the leader of a rebuilt secondary. He also has a team-best four interceptions.