New York Jets LB Jonathan Vilma will replace Miami Dolphins LB Zach Thomas in this year's Pro Bow. Thomas pulled out of the Pro Bowl after suffering shoulder and ankle injuries during the regular season. Vilma, in his second year, had a league-high 173 tackles this year.

"It's an honor for me to be selected to play in the Pro Bowl," said Vilma in a statement. "It was one of my goals when I set my sights on playing in the National Football League and I am excited to play with all the great players that have also been selected."

Vilma was the 2004 Defensive Rookie of the Year.