McCourty's inaugural season in the NFL will come to a close with a trip to the Pro Bowl, but it's a bittersweet parting gift after his Patriots fell to the Jets in a surprising playoff upset.
"I don't think anything will solve the disappointment," McCourty said. "It's an honor and it's a reward to be selected to go there. I'm going to go have fun and then try to get better for next season."
McCourty was one of four rookies who were selected to the Pro Bowl's initial roster, including Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, Titans kick returner Marc Mariani and Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey, who could be as ticked off as McCourty if he joins him in Honolulu.
The cornerback's rookie season was a phenomenal success, as he was second in the NFL with seven interceptions and led the Patriots with nine forced turnovers. McCourty recorded at least one pick or forced fumble in eight of New England's last 11 regular-season games.
He also displayed a tremendous tackling ability, with 71 of his 83 stops this season coming in the form of solo jobs. However, he missed a key tackle on Jerricho Cotchery's 58-yard reception on the first play of the fourth quarter, which turned out to be a season-defining play.
McCourty is a judicious student and hard worker, and he'll use each experience to his advantage this season, which will begin with a depressing trip to one of the world's greatest vacation destinations.
"It's been a good experience going out there being able to play as a rookie," McCourty said. "I'll take away all of the different things I've learned on the field, off the field and just go into this offseason, work hard and try to get better."
