McGahee gets Pro Bowl invite after Tomlinson withdraws

Published: Jan 30, 2008 at 07:50 AM

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson withdrew from the Pro Bowl on Wednesday, paving the way for Ravens running back Willis McGahee to receive his first appearance in the game.

McGahee, a second alternate, earned a trip to Hawaii because Tomlinson has a sprained knee. McGahee missed Baltimore's regular-season finale with broken ribs but has sufficiently recovered and is eager to be part of the AFC squad.

"It is an honor and a privilege to be going to the Pro Bowl, especially when your peers have a say in the matter," McGahee said in a statement. "It is a goal that I have had for a long time, and I am going to enjoy every second of this. To be going with three other Ravens is also special. They always told me the first Pro Bowl is always the most special. I can't wait to share this with my teammates."

Linebacker Ray Lewis and safety Ed Reed were also selected to play in the Pro Bowl; offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden has pulled out.

In his first season with Baltimore, McGahee finished eighth in the NFL with 1,207 yards rushing on a career-high 294 carries. He also ranked third on the Ravens with 43 receptions (for 231 yards and a touchdown). He scored eight TDs.

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