NFL Player Awards 2025-26: Will Christian McCaffrey Win Comeback Player of the Year?
NFL Player Awards 2025-26: Will Christian McCaffrey Win Comeback Player of the Year?
The NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award is presented annually to highlight a player who has demonstrated exceptional resilience following an adversity, such as an injury, illness, or career setback, which resulted in them missing part of the previous season.
As Christian McCaffrey struggled with various injuries during the 2024 season, a return to form could lead to him winning the accolade at the NFL Player Awards 2025-26.
However, the 29-year-old running back faces strong competition from other top players who are expected to bounce back this season.
Continue reading to learn if Christian McCaffrey is likely to win Comeback Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season.
BEO’s betting odds are starting to show a likelihood of Aidan Hutchinson winning Comeback Player of the Year at the NFL Player Awards 2025/26 ::: Discover the latest Bet Entertainment Odds predictions for this market.
Christian McCaffrey is a Strong Contender
LEADERBOARD
NFL Player Awards 25/26 Season - Comeback Player of the Year Odds
| # | Bet Options | Chance to Win | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implied Projected Winner Aidan Hutchinson | 38.46% | ||
| Implied Projected Winner Christian McCaffrey | 30.77% | ||
| Implied Projected Winner Trevor Lawrence | 26.67% |
2024 wasn’t a great year for Christian McCaffrey, as he struggled with many injuries that forced him off the field.
At the start of last season, he endured Achilles tendonitis in both feet. Despite a speedy recovery, his season came to an abrupt end due to a PCL sprain in Week 13.
Before the injuries, McCaffrey was playing at an elite level, as he led the NFL in touchdowns and scrimmage yards during the 2023 season, resulting in him being named Offensive Player of the Year.
If he can return to the same form during this season for the San Francisco 49ers, he would be a worthy choice for Comeback Player of the Year at the NFL Player Awards 2025-26.
Aidan Hutchinson is Projected to Win
McCaffrey could face competition from Aidan Hutchinson for the award, as his recovery journey could secure many votes in his favor.
After all, Hutchinson’s 2024 season came to an end following a broken fibula and tibia, which are severe injuries for any football player.
However, the 24-year-old defensive end didn’t allow the setback to hold him back, as he has since made a full recovery and is ready to make an impact with the Detroit Lions this season.
Before his season was cut short, Hutchinson was setting the standard for all defense in the NFL, as he achieved a record-breaking 7.5 sacks and 17 tackles within his first five games, only for him to sustain an injury in Week 6.
A return to elite form after a major leg injury would likely make him a shoo-in for Comeback Player of the Year at the NFL Player Awards 2025-26, especially if the Lions enjoy success in the league this season.
Trevor Lawrence Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
Trevor Lawrence experienced much disappointment during the 2024 season, as he sustained a shoulder injury in Week 9 during the Jacksonville Jaguars’ game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
The injury was later confirmed to be a serious ACL joint sprain, which forced him to miss two games.
He returned to the team on December 1, 2024, but was forced to leave the game during the second quarter due to sustaining a concussion, which placed him on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.
As he has experienced various ups and downs since being drafted as the number one overall pick by the Jaguars in 2021, a return to fine form and impact on the team could prove he’s the quarterback the team hoped for when signing him.
Lawrence has already proven he has the potential to play at an elite level, as he threw over 4,000 yards during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
