"The NFL announced the Pro Bowl selections Tuesday night, generating the usual controversy over who got snubbed and who is undeserving. Yawn.
Let's get to the fantasy Pro Bowlers, the guys that won owners the cash. Here is my fantasy Pro Bowl team for each conference, based on value -- not raw production:
NFC ALL-VALUE TEM
QB - Cam Newton, Panthers: Aaron Rodgers scored more points, but Newton was a flier pick at the tail end of drafts. It's a reminder to always invest in a quarterback with elite running ability. The rest is gravy.
RB - Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks: Perhaps I need to reassess my evaluation of Lynch's talent level. He was able to sustain health and power despite carrying the ball 20 or more times in eight straight games.
RB - LeSean McCoy, Eagles: We thought that Michael Vick would serve as the Eagles' primary goal-line back, thus capping McCoy's scoring upside. After all, the Eagles historically struggle to grind out tough yards with running backs. Nope. McCoy was dominant inside the 5-yard line, ending up with a league-leading 17 rushing touchdowns.
WR - Jordy Nelson, Packers: When James Jones decided to re-sign with the Pack, Nelson's sleeper status took a big hit. That allowed him to sneak under the radar while becoming the clear No. 2 receiver opposite Greg Jennings.
WR - Victor Cruz, Giants: While Mario Manningham struggled with inconsistency and health, Cruz emerged as a dominant player out of the slot. It's not a fluke. Dating back to his preseason glory, the former undrafted free agent always seems to be making big plays.
TE - Jimmy Graham, Saints: Never sleep on ex-basketball players turned tight ends. Especially when their quarterback is Drew Brees. This one was a layup.
AFC ALL-VALUE TEAM
QB - Tom Brady, Patriots: If Tim Tebow would have been given a chance to start the whole year, he would have this honor. Instead, it's Brady -- who is quietly just 190 yards behind Drew Brees on the season.
RB - Reggie Bush, Dolphins: If you're betting on players like Bush to transform their careers at age 26, you'll lose in the long run. But Bush somehow successfully managed to become a feature back and stay healthy in Miami.
RB - Ray Rice, Ravens: Chris Johnson, Arian Foster and Adrian Peterson all were touted ahead of Rice in the preseason. But with Willis McGahee out of the way, Rice predictably cracked double-digit touchdowns and outscored them all. "
