49ers’ Christian McCaffrey is NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year

Christian McCaffrey went from a question mark to an exclamation point Thursday night when the 49ers running back was named the NFL’s Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year during honors night at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

McCaffery, the NFL’s 2023 Offensive Player of the Year, played just four games last season due to bilateral Achilles tendonitis and a PCL strain. He had just 348 yards from scrimmage (202 rushing, 146 passing) during a season that included a trip to Germany for Achilles tendon treatment.

“Anytime you come back from an injury, it’s extremely tough,” McCaffrey said in accepting the award. “I am so blessed to have the greatest support system in the world. The trainers, bodywork and maintenance staff have worked with me non-stop this season.”

Kyle Shanahan of the 49ers was one of five nominees for Coach of the Year, which went to New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel. Vrabel coached the Patriots to a 14-3 regular-season record and an AFC East title, a year after finishing in last place at 4-13. New England faces the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60 on Sunday at Levi’s Stadium.

Heading into this season with questions about his durability, McCaffrey had a career-high 413 touches, played all 17 games and had 2,126 scrimmage yards (311 carries for 1,202 yards, 102 receptions for 924 yards). He had 17 total touchdowns after scoring none in 2024. The scrimmage yards were second to Atlanta running back Bijan Robinson (2,298 yards).

While McCaffrey led the 49ers in both rushing and receiving, the 49ers went from 6-11 to 12-5 and earned a wild card berth in the NFL playoffs. McCaffrey was also in the bottom five for Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year awards.

“This was one of the most special teams I have ever been a part of,” McCaffrey said. “You gave me inspiration every day to continue.”

The other finalists for Comeback Player of the Year were Buffalo wide receiver Stefon Diggs, Detroit defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence and Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott.

“Each of the guys nominated knows they all deserve to be here,” McCaffrey said. “I have found a lot of inspiration through you all year round.”

McCaffrey was also among the candidates for Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year. He was named to the 2025 Associated Press All-Pro team as an all-purpose player, with fullback Kyle Juszczyk being the 49ers’ only other recognized player.