Harrison Smith

Vikings' Griffen, Patterson, Rhodes, Smith named to Pro Bowl

Published Dec. 20, 2016 8:57 p.m. ET

Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen is headed to the Pro Bowl for the second time.

The Minnesota Vikings’ playoff hopes may be all but finished, but their top-ranked defense will be well-represented at the Pro Bowl.

Defensive end Everson Griffen, return specialist Cordarrelle Patterson, cornerback Cordarrelle Patterson and safety Harrison Smith were named to the Pro Bowl on Tuesday night.

“Getting love from players around the league and making it to my second Pro Bowl is an honor,” Griffen said in a statement. “Individual stats and honors aren’t why we play, but it’s nice to know you are respected around the NFL.”

Griffen, Patterson and Smith return to the Pro Bowl after earning their first selections last season, while Rhodes is being honored for the first time.

The Vikings have now racked up nine Pro Bowl selections since the hiring of head coach Mike Zimmer in 2014.

The Pro Bowl is set for Jan. 29 in Orlando, Florida.

Rhodes is a Florida native, and played college football at Florida State University.

“It’s special to be picked to my first Pro Bowl in my home state,” Rhodes said in a statement. “Growing up I always thought if you made the Pro Bowl you were viewed as the best at your position in the eyes of the other players and fans so it’s definitely an honor.”

Rhodes has emerged as one of the league’s top cornerbacks in his third season, and is tied for fourth in the NFC with a career-high four interceptions.

A wide receiver, Patterson was selected as a return specialist and leads the league with 757 return yards.

Griffen ranks in the top 10 in a number of pass-rushing categories, while he is now tied for seventh in the league in sacks with eight.

Smith is also among the league’s most accomplished players at his position, and ranks third amongst all NFL safeties with two sacks.

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Harrison Smith

Everson Griffen

Cordarrelle Patterson

Minnesota Vikings