Quick Answer
Yes, first round picks make Pro Bowls at much higher rates than later picks. About 40% of 1st rounders make at least one Pro Bowl vs. 15% of 2nd-3rd rounders.
Do First Round Picks Make More Pro Bowls?
Yes, first round picks make Pro Bowls at significantly higher rates than players drafted in later rounds.
Pro Bowl Rate by Draft Round
- Round 1: ~40% make at least one Pro Bowl
- Round 2: ~20% make a Pro Bowl
- Round 3: ~15% make a Pro Bowl
- Round 4-5: ~8% make a Pro Bowl
- Round 6-7: ~5% make a Pro Bowl
- Undrafted: ~2% make a Pro Bowl
Why First Rounders Dominate
First round picks are more talented on average AND receive more opportunities:
- Better athletes with higher ceilings
- More playing time as rookies
- Teams more invested in their success
- Better coaching and development resources
Notable Late-Round Pro Bowlers
- Tom Brady (6th round) – 15× Pro Bowl
- Antonio Brown (6th round) – 7× Pro Bowl
- Richard Sherman (5th round) – 5× Pro Bowl
Draft position predicts success, but late-round gems exist.