Buffalo Bills have one significant snub from 2026 NFL Pro Bowl Games

The Buffalo Bills announced that quarterback Josh Allen, running back James Cook III, and left tackle Dion Dawkins were all selected to the 2026 NFL Pro Bowl Games this season. However, it was a name not announced, which should raise some eyebrows: fullback Reggie Gilliam. Instead of Gilliam being named to the roster, it was Baltimore Ravens fullback Patrick Ricard, who always seems to get the nod no matter what kind of season he puts together.

This isn’t meant as disrespect to Ricard, as he is an amazing player, but there was no reason for voters to ignore giving Gilliam the nod. After all, Ricard has only played in nine games this season while Gilliam has not missed a single matchup. Also, many consider the success of a running attack dependent on the fullback. The Ravens are third in the NFL in rushing yards per game, but leading the way at number one are the Bills — and Gilliam deserves a lot of the credit for that fact.

Gilliam is the go-to fullback when the offense plays heavy, and there are multiple replays where Gilliam is shown leading the way for the running backs who get to the second level against opposing defenses. Gilliam is also a monster on special teams, making numerous plays each game. Running back/kickoff returner Ray Davis may be leading the league in kickoff return average, but one of the main reasons why is that Gilliam often leads the way as the lead blocker on return coverage.

For those who believe in Pro Football Focus grades, Ricard is ahead of Gilliam. However, Gilliam has almost double the pass-blocking grade as Ricard, with the two fairly close in run-blocking grades. It’s true that the Pro Bowl often becomes a name game, and Ricard has that going for him among diehards and those only interested due to fantasy football leagues through work. Hopefully, Gilliam is voted in as an alternate and gets at least a sliver of the respect he deserves.