SANTA CLARA — DeForest Buckner can now add “Pro Bowler” to his credentials when it comes to this offseason’s contract talks with the 49ers on a lucrative extension.
Buckner was named Tuesday to his first Pro Bowl as he will replace Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, who sustained a foot injury in Sunday’s playoff loss at New Orleans.
Buckner joins 49ers tight end George Kittle and fullback Kyle Juszczyk at the annual all-star showcase, held Jan. 27 in Orlando, Fla.
After completing his third season and doing so with a career-high 12 sacks, Buckner is eligible for a contract extension, otherwise the 49ers need to declare in the coming months that they’re picking up his fifth-year option for 2020.