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2012 NFL Pro Bowl rosters come out at 7 p.m. ET on the NFL Network. For those of you who don't get that network, which is probably many of you, simply check in right here. While the Atlanta Falcons won't come close to last year's league-high representation, multiple Birds should still make the list.
The likeliest candidates could be linebackers Curtis Lofton and Sean Weatherspoon, though probably not both. Each ranks in the NFC's top seven in tackles, with Spoon adding four sacks and Lofton two turnovers. Weatherspoon is third among NFC outside linebackers in tackles.
Also, running back Michael Turner and tight end Tony Gonzalez. Turner is third in the NFC in rushing yards, while Gonzalez ranks third among NFC tight ends in receiving yardage. But fourth-place back Marshawn Lynch has more highlight runs than Turner does, and Gonzalez would have to overtake Jason Witten of the Dallas Cowboys, who plays for the Dallas Cowboys, who are very famous.
Quarterback Matt Ryan would be in line for his second-straight appearance if not for absurd years by Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers, which leaves only one spot for Ryan, Eli Manning or Matthew Stafford, any of whom would be deserving.
Wide receiver Roddy White has a good chance, but Calvin Johnson, Victor Cruz, Steve Smith and Larry Fitzgerald all top him among NFC receivers, as far as yardage goes. White's league-leading drops and lack of big plays (one 40-plus-yard play -- each of the other four has five or more each) will hurt.
Going by stats alone, which is probably what almost every voter does, Thomas DeCoud could make it in at free safety. His four interceptions and 78 tackles easily make for the NFC's second-best statistical resume at the position.
Brent Grimes and Ovie Mughelli missed too many games, John Abraham's sack total has yet to cross double digits, and no offensive linemen emerged as especially elite, though the line did improve later in the year.
If I had to optimistically guess, I'd say Turner, Gonzalez and DeCoud, along with either Lofton or Weatherspoon.