Represented by three members of the team, the Green Bay Packers learned Wednesday that quarterback Aaron Rodgers,linebacker Clay Matthewsand center Jeff Saturday were named to the Pro Bowl by the National Football League. Additionally, Rodgers was named a starter for the NFC squad.
Kick returner Randall Cobb and guard Josh Sitton were named first alternates.
Matthews earns his fourth career selection as he becomes the first Packer to earn Pro Bowl recognition in each of his first four seasons in the league. He becomes just the second linebacker in team history to be named to the Pro Bowl four times, joining Bill Forester (1959-62). Matthews leads the team with 12 sacks (No. 6 in the NFL), despite missing four games due to injury, along with 50 tackles (40 solo), a forced fumble and four passes defensed.
For Rodgers, it marks the third Pro Bowl selection of his career (2009, 2011) and the second consecutive season he has been named the starter for the NFC squad. The eighth-year pro leads the league this season in passer rating (106.2) and touchdown/interception ratio (4.38, 35/8), and ranks No. 2 in touchdown passes (35) and No. 4 in completion percentage (67.0).
Saturday has earned his sixth career Pro Bowl bid and first as a member of the Packers. He was selected to the Pro Bowl five times with the Indianapolis Colts (2005-07, 2009-10). Saturday has been part of a Green Bay offense that ranks No. 7 in the league in scoring at 26.6 points per game.
Other alternates include fullback John Kuhn, defensive tackle B.J. Raji, cornerback Tramon Williamsand safety Charles Woodson.
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