New England Patriots: Eight Strong Pro Bowl Candidates

Nov 30, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Matthew Slater (18) before the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

It’s no secret that the Patriots have a significant amount of talent. But that’s expected from the reigning Super Bowl champions, who have also started 7-0. The Patriots are playing great football on both sides of the ball right now.

While there’s plenty of players that are playing at a Pro Bowl-caliber level, we are going to limit the list to eight players, three on offense, three on defense, and two on special teams. First off, let’s take a look at the special teams.

Kicker Stephen Gostkowski

Gostkowski is kicking the ball better than he ever has in his career. He broke Adam Vinatieri‘s team record for the most consecutive field goals with 26, and the most consecutive extra points in the NFL, when he broke Matt Stover‘s record of 422 straight. Gostkowski is the best kicker in football, and he can also put some curve on the ball when he needs to.

Special Teams Ace Matthew Slater
The spot in the Pro Bowl for the third special teamer is Matthew Slater’s. He’s made the Pro Bowl in this slot for the last 4 years, and there’s no sign that he won’t get that honor for a fifth straight year. He is the best player in kick coverage in the entire NFL, and his leadership to the team is obvious at all times. Slater is extremely likely to make it to the Pro Bowl as a special teamer again.

Next: Defense