It's hard to put into words what making the Pro Bowl means to Hayward as it's been an emotional year away from the field. The cornerback broke down in tears explaining for the first time how his mother, Tikisha, passed away in July at the age of 45 after a yearlong battle with breast cancer.

"I dedicated this whole season to her," he said. "I've been playing this whole season for her, so to get this accomplishment is for her. Nobody really knew what I went through, so for this to happen, I give all the glory to God. My mom rallied me to the games growing up. To be where I am now, giving all her hard work for me and my family, this means the world to me. She was excited when I became a Charger, but she passed in July right before training camp started."

Hayward dedicated his season in her honor, and emerged as one of the game's top corners. Not only does the 27-year old lead the NFL in interceptions, he is officially tied with Brent Grimes for the most passes defensed (19). Unofficially, he tops the league by himself as the Chargers credit him with 21 passes broken up based on coaches film review. The fifth-year veteran is also on pace to set a new career-high in tackles as he is three shy of his personal best (55) with two games remaining.

The 5-11, 192-pound cornerback carries himself with the swagger necessary to thrive at what some consider the hardest position to play.