Pro Bowl 2013: Defensive Players Who Will Make a Splash

The Pro Bowl 2013 is almost upon us and while the game is known as an offensive shootout, there will still be defensive players who will make a splash. 

Which of the stud defensive players will have a great game in Honolulu?

Read on to find out.


Geno Atkins, DT, Cincinnati 

Geno Atkins had a phenomenal year for the Bengals and was rewarded with a Pro Bowl start.

The defensive tackle had 53 tackles, 12.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. He was a force in the middle of the defensive line for the Bengals and was a main reason that the team had the seventh-ranked pass defense and the 12th-ranked run defense.

Atkins will get a chance to show off his skills in Honolulu. The offensive line won't block as they normally do in a game, and Atkins can use his explosion and strength to get after the quarterback.

Look for Atkins to have a few sacks and become a household name with a top performance in the Pro Bowl.


Charles Tillman, CB, Chicago

Charles Tillman solidified his standing as a top cornerback with a fantastic season.

Tillman had 85 tackles, three interceptions and a remarkable 10 forced fumbles.  

He doesn't get a lot of recognition league-wide, but that will change after the Pro Bowl.

Look for Tillman to continue his turnover-causing ways and force a few fumbles in this game.


Jairus Byrd, FS, Buffalo

Jairus Byrd was one of the main reasons that the Bills had the 10th-ranked pass defense.

He had 76 tackles, four forced fumbles and five interceptions.

Because there's a lot of passing in the Pro Bowl, Byrd will have plenty of chances to make some plays. 

He's a natural ballhawk and that will serve him well in this game. He could end up having a pick or two.