New Orleans Saints players thrive in Pro Bowl loss

Several New Orleans Saints players came up big and made their team known to the NFL in the Pro Bowl loss to the AFC on Sunday afternoon.

The Pro Bowl is one of the most fun games that the NFL has to offer at the end of each season with the best of the best from the two divisions coming together to battle it out. At the end of the day, 11 New Orleans Saints got the opportunity to participate this year.

A day that was supposed to be fun, quickly turned reminiscent at the tragic passing of the NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Sunday morning. Many players gave celebrations and statements in honor of Kobe and the impact he had on sports.

In the 38-33 NFC loss, Drew Brees, Michael Thomas, and Jared Cook all played big offensive parts. Cam Jordan made the stats sheet on defense, and Wil Lutz ultimately kicked multiple extra-point attempts during the game.

Drew Brees, at the request of named starter Russell Wilson, took the starting quarterback spot for the NFC. He ended up completing four of seven pass attempts for 95 yards and a touchdown. He was the highest-rated NFC quarterback for the day with 141.4.

Drew Brees also took the time to reflect on the legacy of Kobe Bryant.

Meanwhile, Michael Thomas caught five receptions for 92 yards and a touchdown. Funny enough, Thomas caught his lone touchdown score on the day from his quarterback Drew Brees who also only threw one touchdown to him.

Jared Cook also caught three receptions for 84 yards but was held scoreless. Overall, the three offensive players made a big impact on the game. The Saints had the highest-rated passer and the No. 2 and 3 receivers for the NFC.

Cam Jordan also deserves recognition with his one tackle. Deonte Harris was unfortunately held out as the return specialist because there were no returns. The NFL was testing out potential rule changes for the future.

Those new rules included kickoffs a different way, scoring teams were given the opportunity to either take an onside kick with a 4th and 15 or just opt to give the team the ball on the 25-yard line without a return possibility.