Kyle Juszczyk may have been slammed on social media this season, but the 49ers fullback clearly still has plenty of fans: On Tuesday, he became the only member of the team who was voted to the Pro Bowl.
Juszczyk became the first 49er voted to the Pro Bowl since 2015 when left tackle Joe Staley and inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman were honored. He is also the 49ers’ first Pro Bowl fullback since Harry Sydney in 2003. Juszczyk made the Pro Bowl last year.
Four 49ers were selected Pro Bowl alternates: Staley, right tackle Trent Brown, kicker Robbie Gould and running back Carlos Hyde.
In March, general manager John Lynch said Juszczyk would be an “offensive weapon” after the 49ers made him the NFL’s highest-paid fullback with a four-year, $21 million contract. However, Juszczyk has produced fairly standard numbers for his position (78 carries, 31; 24 catches, 220 yards).
He’s also lost two fumbles, missed two games with an injury and left other contests early. Earlier this month, Juszczyk, who has served as an effective lead blocker, smiled after addressing those who have viewed his season as a disappointment.
“I wanted to defend myself a little bit,” Juszczyk said. “I’ve been getting ridiculed on social media.”
Twitter: @Eric_Branch