Calvin Johnson will not play in the Pro Bowl and will be replaced by Chicago Bears receiver Alshon Jeffery.
The Detroit Lions receiver has struggled with knee injuries all season long, including missing two games and being severely limited in at least two others, so it makes sense that he would sit out of the exhibition in Hawaii on Jan. 26.
He is likely going to have surgery on the right knee in the offseason for a sprained knee and to clean out loose bodies in it, ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported in December.
Jeffery, who had a breakout season and now gets a trip to Hawaii, is a player some would argue should have been in the game in the first place.
"Just being from where I came from to where I am now, what I'm doing…it's just special to be part of the success we're having as a team," Jeffery said in a statement released by the Bears. "I want to thank my Mama and my family. I'm going to continue to make you all proud."
Jeffery caught 89 passes for 1,421 yards and seven touchdowns this season in his second year in the league. He finished sixth in the league in receiving yards, 10th in receptions and tied for 23rd in touchdowns.
Johnson, in 14 games, caught 84 passes for 1,492 yards and 12 touchdowns