As the San Francisco 49ers get ready for their first playoff berth since 2002, a number of their players may be making the trip to the Pro Bowl this season as well.
Inside linebacker Patrick Willis (41,7923 votes), defensive tackle Justin Smith (52,5578 votes), and punter Andy Lee (161,812 votes) lead the way in fan voting at their respective positions, while five other 49ers came in second (all of them behind a Green Bay Packer); cornerback Carlos Rogers, fullback Bruce Miller, center Jonathan Goodwin, free safety Dashon Goldson, kicker David Akers and special-teamer Blake Costanzo.
Six other Niners are in the top five for their positions as well: running back Frank Gore (fourth), left tackle Joe Staley (fourth), right tackle Anthony Davis (fifth), guard Mike Iupati (fourth), strong safety Donte Whitner (fifth) and kick returner Ted Ginn Jr. (third).
Remember, the fan vote is only a third of the voting process, players and coaches are the other two thirds. Also, If the Packers reach the Super Bowl, the 49ers could have as many as nine starters filling in for them at the Pro Bowl, but If 49ers go to the Super Bowl, none of them go to the Pro Bowl. Let's hope the later happens.
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