FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - New England Patriots outside linebacker Willie McGinest was officially added to the AFC's Pro Bowl squad today, joining teammates Ty Law and Richard Seymour. It is the second time in McGinest's 10-year career to earn the honor.
McGinest, 32, was originally drafted by the Patriots in the first round of the 1994 NFL draft out of Southern Cal. In 1995, he recorded a career-high 88 tackles, including a team-leading 11 sacks. He followed with 9.5 sacks in 1996 while helping the Patriots claim just their second conference title in franchise history. His efforts were rewarded with his first trip to the Pro Bowl following Super Bowl XXXI.
This season, McGinest finished fifth on the team with 79 total tackles, including 5.5 sacks. In Week 16, McGinest earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors after recording nine tackles, including 1.5 sacks, and scoring on a 15-yard interception return to secure a 21-16 victory over the Jets.
He now ranks fourth in franchise history with 62.5 career sacks. In 10 seasons, he has started 114 of 139 games and has compiled 577 career tackles. He has intercepted three passes, returning two for touchdowns, and is credited with 14 forced fumbles and 13 fumble recoveries.
