CLEVELAND (AP) -Long snapper Ryan Pontbriand was added to the AFC squad on Monday, giving the Cleveland Browns at least four representatives for next month’s game in Hawaii.
Pontbriand will join kick returner Joshua Cribbs, wide receiver Braylon Edwards and left tackle Joe Thomas in Honolulu for the Feb. 10 game. Before this season, the Browns hadn’t had a player make the Pro Bowl since linebacker Jamir Miller in 2001.
Pontbriand was not a replacement. He was chosen by San Diego’s coaching staff, which as the losing team in the AFC championship, gets to coach the AFC team.
“I’m thrilled,” Pontbriand said. “Making the Pro Bowl is a goal I was always hoping for but never thought I’d see this early in my career. To be selected means a lot because there are several excellent snappers in the AFC and a lot of longtime veterans who have been snapping well for many years.
“It’s going to be a memorable experience.”
Pontbriand was drafted in the fifth round in 2003 by coach Butch Davis, who was criticized at the time for using a pick on a long snapper. But Pontbriand has proven to be invaluable to the Browns, who signed him to a four-year contract extension in September.
Quarterback Derek Anderson, offensive guard Eric Steinbach and tight end Kellen Winslow remain as alternates for the Pro Bowl and could be added if others decide not to play.
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