As is the case with all voting of any All-Star ilk, Pro Bowl voting is a popularity contest. For a player to earn a selection on the original ballot, which often carries financial implications, they must garner enough votes from fans, coaches and players in equal measure.
Then, as players on the Super Bowl teams are rendered ineligible and others choose not to go, Pro Bowl alternates get their opportunity to experience what is now a set of competitions rather than an attempt to play a legit football game.
All of that said, being a Pro Bowler is an honor and it's a meaningful part of any player's career resume, right next to any notable career stats, how many Super Bowl rings were won and how many All-Pro nods were earned.