Bucs quarterback Josh Freeman says there were several games this season when opposing defensive players made it known they were wary of facing guard Davin Joseph.

"I remember Ndamukong Suh before the first game said, "Man, you've got to keep 75 from cheap (shots)'' Freeman said. "I'm like, "Are you really telling me this? You of all people?' Guys throughout the year said the same thing. (Texans linebacker) Brian Cushing comes to mind. They know about Davin, they know how a great player he is and it's great to have him on our team.''

Joseph, who signed a seven-year, $52.5-million contract before the season, was named to his second Pro Bowl in four seasons Tuesday.

It was a rare individual honor for a 4-11 Bucs team that has lost nine straight games heading into Sunday's season finale at Atlanta.

“It’s tough to make it,'' Joseph said. "We have a talented league, a talented division. But it just shows how much work we put up front, challenging each other on a day-to-day basis, always looking to get better. It’s just a reflection on how hard the offensive line has been working this year and I’m just proud to be the one chosen. I couldn’t do it without my guys.