For the second consecutive season, former Rutgers long snapper Andrew DePaola is heading to the Pro Bowl. The Minnesota Vikings player finished second among NFC long snappers in fan voting.
He will be joined by, outside linebacker Danielle Hunter, who has recorded 15.5 sacks for the Vikings this season.
During his time in Minnesota, DePaola has become a leader in the locker room. The 36-year-old has also been vital to the special teams unit, continually coming through in big situations. There have also been two plays in particular that have stood during the 2023 campaign.
Against the Lions on Christmas Eve, DePaola executed a snap perfectly that allowed Greg Joseph to knock through a 54-yard field goal. In Week 11 against the Broncos, the Parton native made a direct snap to running back Ty Chandler on a successful fake punt.
Thank you to everyone who helped get me to this position. I am truly honored. Back-to-back. We have, without a doubt, the best fans in the NFL. Being on the best radio show is also a great way to gain support @93xhams. Thank you all again pic.twitter.com/DDdejj41I0
— Andrew DePaola (@andrewdepaola) January 4, 2024
While DePaola is not a stranger to the Pro Bowl, it is still an honor that means a lot. On the social media app X, the former Rutgers star took the time to thank those who have helped him in his career.
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In his post, DePaola said:
“Thank you to everyone who helped me get to this position. I am truly honored. Back-to-back. We have, without a doubt, the best fans in the NFL. Being on the best radio show is also a great way to gain support @93xhamd. Thank you all again.”
During his NFL career, DePaola has also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chicago Bears and Las Vegas Raiders.