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.