Johnny Knox dazzled fans at Shotwell Stadium during his time at ACU. Next weekend, the Chicago Bears’ rookie will have a chance to shine on South Beach after being named a replacement for the NFC Pro Bowl squad.

Knox, a fifth-round pick, will represent the NFC as a kick return specialist, replacing Minnesota wide receiver Percy Harvin who has been suffering from migraine headaches. Knox averaged 29 yards a return this year, including a 102-yard return for a touchdown against the Detroit Lions.

He also proved to be a receiving weapon for Bears’ quarterback Jay Cutler. During the 2009 season Knox caught 45 passes for 527 yards and five touchdowns for a Chicago offense in dire need of a deep passing threat.

Knox, quarterback Billy Malone and running back Bernard Scott formed the most dynamic football trio in Wildcat history. During his two years in Abilene, Knox caught 118 passes for 2,227 yards and 30 touchdowns. During the 2008 season the Wildcats won the Lone Star Conference and averaged more than 52 points per game.

For the first time, the NFL Pro Bowl will be played one week before the Super Bowl. The game has traditionally been played in Hawaii, but the NFL will play this year’s game in Miami, the Super Bowl’s host city. The 2010 NFL Pro Bowl will kick off at 6:30 p.m Jan. 31 on ESPN.