CHARLOTTE, N.C. (CHARLOTTE SPORTS LIVE) — Panthers defensive lineman Derrick Brown officially gave Carolina Pro Bowl selection, the team reported Friday.
Brown is coming off of a monster season in his fourth year in Carolina. He broke the the NFL’s single-season tackle record for a defensive lineman, finishing with 103 total. In the process, the team said he nearly doubled the previous franchise record of 67, set by Mike Rucker in 2002 which Brown tied last year.
The Auburn product was originally voted in as the NFC’s first alternate at defensive tackle. The three originally named were Aaron Donald (Rams), Dexter Lawrence (Giants) and Javon Hargrave (49ers). Brown will be replacing Donald, who is unable in the Feb. 4 game to participate due to injury.
The Pro Bowl rosters, including starters and alternates, were announced on Jan. 3. At that time, being named an alternate, Brown said of the selection: “I wanted to make the team. I think that’s obvious. I played hard. No discredit to nobody else. But, it sucks. I’m appreciative of the recognition, for sure.”
In addition to the game itself, the selection means participating in a week of related events in Orlando, Florida, beginning Feb. 1.
The Panthers had three other players named as alternates. Brian Burns was a second alternate at outside linebacker, and punter Johnny Hekkerand long snapper JJ Jansen were named third alternates at their positions.