On Sunday, the Pro Bowl reached a new low. A two-hand touch football game with sporadic efforts in the trenches resulted in a 41-35 victory for the AFC. But, while the game itself was embarrassing, the Bucs players in it acquitted themselves well.

Wide receiver Mike Evans was perhaps the best skill player on the NFC team, with two catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. The 4-time Pro Bowler made a leaping high-point grab of a 19-yard score from Kyler Murray in the second quarter. Later in the game, Evans reeled in a 31-yarder to complete his day.

Meanwhile, on the defensive side there were several fine performances. Linebacker Devin White was everywhere, leading the team with 14 tackles. White also added a sack, grabbing Mac Jones on an AFC 2-point conversion attempt. The third-year linebacker was one of the few Pro Bowl players with a pulse, running all over the field.

Like White, Antoine Winfield Jr. was an injury addition to the Pro Bowl. Maybe he shouldn’t have been. After an outstanding 2021 campaign, Winfield had one of the Pro Bowl’s splash plays as well. In a familiar sight, Winfield intercepted Patrick Mahomes early in the game. This time, the second-year safety brought the turnover back for a touchdown.

Bucs Linemen Impress As Well

Shaq Barrett and Vita Vea each finished with three tackles. Vea made one big run stop at the line of scrimmage after shedding a block. On the offensive trenches, Ali Marpet and Ryan Jensen nearly combined for the high effort play of the game. Both linemen attempted to chase down Darius Leonard’s pick-six attempt, but to no avail. In fact, Marpet tried to punch the ball out from behind, but Leonard was too crafty.

Of the seven Bucs who participated in the Pro Bowl, six will be back next season. Center Ryan Jensen is the lone free agent. Pro Bowl tackle Tristan Wirfs didn’t play on Sunday, but will also return to the lineup next year. Despite the retirement of Tom Brady, the Bucs roster will remain imposing in other areas.