McCaffrey Claims Comeback Player of the Year Award for 2025 Season
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey received the Comeback Player of the Year award for the 2025 season. This marks the first time a running back has earned the honor since Garrison Hearst in 2001.
Award Details
McCaffrey was chosen over other finalists, including New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs, Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Voting results also recorded one vote for veteran quarterback Philip Rivers.
Performance Context
Following a 2023 season where McCaffrey was named Offensive Player of the Year and the 49ers reached the Super Bowl, expectations for 2024 were high. However, the 2024 season saw McCaffrey make only four appearances due to Achilles tendonitis and a PCL sprain. These injuries contributed to the 49ers' 6-11 record and their absence from the playoffs.
2025 Season Achievements
In 2025, McCaffrey participated in all 17 regular-season games for San Francisco. He recorded 1,202 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 311 carries. He also contributed significantly to the passing game with 102 receptions for 924 yards and seven scores.
This performance marked McCaffrey's third career season surpassing 2,000 all-purpose yards.
The 49ers concluded the 2025 season with a 12-5 record, advancing to the playoffs before a divisional round loss to the Seattle Seahawks. During two postseason contests, McCaffrey rushed for 83 yards and caught 11 passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns.