New England, which did not roster any Pro Bowlers last season, is set to have one player on hand for the festivities in Orlando on Feb. 2. Brenden Schooler was named the special teamer for the AFC team, which marked the first Pro Bowl selection of his young career.

Schooler, who joined the Patriots as an undrafted free agent in May 2022, shined in New England’s first season following Matthew Slater’s retirement. Consistent standout performances resulted in the 27-year-old signing a three-year extension with the Patriots in early October.

Of course, New England fans might be more focused on a certain player’s omission from the Pro Bowl roster than Schooler’s inclusion. Christian Gonzalez, who was excellent this season after returning from a labrum injury that limited his rookie campaign to four games, was not selected to attend the star-studded showcase.

Schooler, Gonzalez and their Patriots teammates will finish out the 2024 season Sunday afternoon when they host the Buffalo Bills. A Week 18 loss would deliver New England the 2025 No. 1 overall pick, which potentially could yield the Patriots their next perennial Pro Bowler.