Brandon Williams' wait to make the Pro Bowl is over.
The NFL announced Tuesday that Williams has been named to the Pro Bowl for the first time in his six-year career.
Williams will replace defensive tackle Geno Atkins of the Cincinnati Bengals, who is unable to participate due to injury.
"Thank you to the fans and NFL colleagues who voted for me," Williams said. "It is an honor to represent the city of Baltimore and the Ravens organization.
"My wife and I couldn't hold back our tears of excitement and joy to know that after six wonderful years in the NFL, and with God's guidance, we have reached our goal of getting selected to the Pro Bowl!"
Williams has long been regarded as a top defensive tackle and he played an important role in Baltimore's No. 1-ranked defense that allowed just 292.9 total yards per game. The Ravens ranked fourth against the run this season, yielding 82.9 yards per game.
His strength and athleticism for a player his size (6-foot-1, 335 pounds) makes him difficult to block one-on-one. Williams' penetration and ability to occupy multiple blockers is a key to Baltimore's defense, and his play at the line of scrimmage often allows teammates to make plays.
Since Williams became a starter in 2014, the Ravens have allowed an NFL-low 95.1 rushing yards per game. He has also been extremely durable, playing every game in four of the last five seasons.
For the season, Williams had 34 tackles, one sack, and one pass breakup. He is the fourth Raven to make the Pro Bowl this season, joining inside linebacker C.J. Mosley, safety Eric Weddle and right guard Marshal Yanda.
"I couldn't be more appreciative and thankful to everyone who has had a hand or vote in getting my dream to come true, and I look forward to playing the game in Orlando," Williams said. "I vowed to myself and to my wife that we could not take a trip to Hawaii until after I went to the Pro Bowl. Honey, pack your bags!"
