Along with inevitable lists of Pro Bowl snubs, there are players whose inclusion in the Pro Bowl causes NFL observers to raise an eyebrow, then a stink.

That player this season is New England Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather, who was named to his second straight All-Star game appearance, despite being used in a situational role at times this season.

Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald reports that Meriweather has heard the criticism, but isn't bothered by it.

"I’ll take this (Pro Bowl trip), because it gives you a little more confidence, knowing your peers think you’re one of the best playing your position," Meriweather said on Thursday. "It gives you confidence knowing you’re respected around the league.

"I’m a little older now," Meriweather added. "I don’t let things that people say and things that come out in the media bother me."