Johnny Hekker delighted with Pro Bowl spot

St Louis Rams punter Johnny Hekker has admitted that he was surprised but pleased to have been included in the roster for this year's Pro Bowl.

Hecker said that he owes a lot to his teammates and the club's coaching staff for his spot in the game, which recognises the best talent of the NFL season.

"It was a goal, but I didn't think it was that realistic," Hekker told the club's official website. "You see a lot of guys going to the Pro Bowl who had been in the league for awhile, guys who were a proven, strong talent in the league and were recognised as such.

"It was a goal that I had put on my timeline for a few years down the road. I didn't anticipate it happening this early, but with great help from my teammates in St Louis and great coaching, it's been able to happen this year and it's a huge blessing."

The Rams finished bottom of the NFC West with a 7-9 record.