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For Third Straight Year, Bears Shut Out In Initial Pro Bowl Voting

By Chris Emma--

(670 The Score) The Chicago Bears were once again shut out in the initial wave of Pro Bowl voting, as unveiled Tuesday night. It marks the third straight season this has happened.

Though there were worthy candidates in running back Jordan Howard and defensive lineman Akiem Hicks, popular names at their respective positions won out.

The Bears could well have players enter the Pro Bowl as replacements for injured players or those who decline the opportunity. Last January, Howard and offensive lineman Josh Sitton were welcomed in as Pro Bowl replacements. The Eagles' Fletcher Cox and the Rams' Aaron Donald -- both of NFC contenders -- were voted in over Hicks, as was Buccaneers' Gerald McCoy, who's dealing with a bicep injury. Hicks may be called upon as a replacement.

Rams running back Todd Gurley and Saints running backs Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara -- also key members of contenders -- were selected over Howard, who could be the first alternate selected.

Since general manager Ryan Pace and head coach John Fox took charge of the Bears in 2015, the team hasn't seen one Pro Bowl player selected in the initial round of voting, which is now split three ways between votes from fans, players and coaches.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670 The Score 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.

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