I just got off phone with Recon, they said app was declined because I'd received the bonus in the past 24 mo - said no credit was pulled, and even if I wanted the product I wouldn't be allowed to open one within 24 mo of having received a bonus (even forgoing the bonus).
I asked when I'd received the prior bonus... it was Jan 9, 2015. My application was submitted Jan 8, 2017.
So yes, they're strict with the 24 mo.