Kupp, Adams among unanimous All-Pros
Five players, including dynamic pass catchers Cooper Kupp and Davante Adams, are unanimous choices for the Associated Press 2021 NFL All-Pro Team.
Joining the Rams’ Kupp and the Packers’ Adams in receiving votes Friday from all 50 members of a nationwide panel of media members who regularly cover the league are Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt and Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald.
While Donald is a perennial pick — the three-time Defensive Player of the Year makes the team for the seventh time in his eight pro seasons — Watt is on it for a third time. He tied the NFL record for sacks with 22½. Adams makes it for the second time, and the other two are newcomers as All-Pros. Kupp led the NFL in receptions (145), yards receiving (1,947) and TD catches (16). Taylor was the top rusher with 1,811 yards and scored 18 touchdowns on the ground and two as a receiver.
Like Donald, several players are making another appearance on the All-Pro Team. Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers is on for the fourth time, as is Philadelphia center Jason Kelce — one more than his brother, Chiefs’ star tight end Travis. One better than them: Dallas right guard Zack Martin and Baltimore placekicker Justin Tucker at five.
Three-time All-Pros are Colts linebacker Darius Leonard, Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward. Two-time All-Pros are Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett and Titans safety Kevin Byard.
The other 14 2021 All-Pros are making their debuts.
On offense, 49ers left tackle Trent Williams is a newcomer in his 11th NFL season, joined by 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel, Ravens tight end Mark Andrews, Buccaneers right tackle Tristan Wirfs, Browns left guard Joel Bitonio.
On defense, it’s linebackers Micah Parsons of Dallas, the only rookie on the squad, and De’Vondre Campbell of Green Bay; Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs; Bills safety Jordan Poyer; and five special teamers: Las Vegas punter A.J. Cole, Jets kick returner Braxton Berrios, Ravens punt returner Devin Duvernay, Saints special teams ace J.T Gray, and Colts long snapper Luke Rhodes.
Almost as unusual as sweeping the votes is having a rookie on the team. Parsons, who will make his playoff debut against the 49ers in Dallas on Sunday, has been so outstanding he’s also considered a strong contender for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
The Packers, Colts, Ravens, Rams and Cowboys each have three All-Pros.