The 2012 NFL Pro Bowl results have been released, but not everyone on the initial list of the Pro Bowl will actually play in the game. Often, players will bow out of the Pro Bowl to play in the Super Bowl or because of lingering injuries or injuries suffered in the playoffs. To replace these players the NFL will name alternates. The alternates for the NFC side of the Pro Bowl roster are Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford and Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Cam Newton.

Newton is the first alternate for the NFC and will likely play in the game, according to the Charlotte Observer. Newton has had an impressive rookie campaign, even though his team has won many games. On the season, Newton has thrown for 3,893 passing yards with 20 touchdown passes and 16 interceptions. Newton also added 673 rushing yards with 14 rushing touchdowns, for a total of 34 touchdowns on the season.

Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is also an alternate, according to Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com. It's unsure what number alternate Stafford is, but like Newton has should have a good chance to make it into the game. On the season, Stafford had 4,518 passing yards with 36 touchdowns and just 14 interceptions. He's led the Lions to their first playoff appearance in quite some time.