Two former Penn State standouts are heading to the Pro Bowl - or at least, they’ve earned the honor.
Micah Parsons and Jordan Stout were the only ex-Nittany Lions to receive Pro Bowl selections this season, and both have very different stories behind their nods.
Let’s start with Parsons. The star edge rusher, now with the Green Bay Packers after a high-profile trade from Dallas, saw his season come to a sudden halt two weeks ago when he tore his ACL against the Denver Broncos.
It’s a brutal blow for a player who was once again playing at an elite level. Despite the injury, Parsons still racked up 12.5 sacks and forced a pair of fumbles - a testament to just how disruptive he was before going down.
This marks Parsons’ fifth Pro Bowl selection in as many NFL seasons. That kind of consistency - five-for-five - is rare air, especially for a defensive player.
It speaks not just to his raw talent, but his relentless motor and ability to impact games week in and week out. While he won’t suit up for the festivities, the recognition is well-earned.
On the other side of the ball - and the field - punter Jordan Stout is getting his moment in the spotlight. The Baltimore Ravens specialist was named to his first Pro Bowl, becoming just the second punter in franchise history to receive the honor.
The only other? Sam Koch, who earned the nod back in 2015 and became something of a legend in Baltimore for his consistency and precision.
Stout’s selection isn’t just ceremonial - he’s been booming the ball all year. He’s averaging a career-best 50.5 yards per punt, a number that puts him among the league’s elite and shows just how valuable he’s been in flipping field position for one of the AFC’s top teams. For a Ravens squad built on defense and field control, Stout’s leg has been a key weapon.
So while Parsons won’t be able to participate due to injury, and Stout’s position doesn’t always generate headlines, both players are being recognized for outstanding seasons. From State College to the NFL’s biggest stage, these two continue to make their alma mater proud.