GREEN BAY – Packers defensive tackle Mike Daniels and fullback Aaron Ripkowski have been named first alternates for the Pro Bowl, the NFL announced Tuesday.
A fourth-round pick out of Iowa in 2012, Daniels has recorded at least 3½ sacks in each season since 2013, which is tied for first in the NFL among defensive tackles, according to Pro Football Reference. His 26 career sacks are tied for second all-time among Packers defensive tackles since 1982.
The now three-time Pro Bowl alternate has 46 tackles, four sacks and a forced fumble in 12 starts this season. With two regular-season games remaining, the sixth-year defensive tackle is on pace to set a new career high for tackles in a season and already surpassed 500 defensive snaps for the fifth consecutive year.
Ripkowski, an alternate last season, has played in all 14 games this year with five carries for 13 yards and six receptions for 35 yards. The third-year fullback's primary responsibility has been as a blocker for rookie backs Jamaal Williams and Aaron Jones, who have combined for 1,104 total yards and 10 touchdowns.
Receiver Davante Adams, tackle David Bakhtiari, linebacker Clay Matthews and punter Justin Vogel also were named alternates. Bakhtiari made his first Pro Bowl appearance after being a first alternate last year. Matthews previously was selected six times.
