NFL Comeback Player of the Year Winners
The prestigious title of NFL Comeback Player of the Year, given by a nationwide panel of media representatives, has seen many outstanding players recognized over the years. Below is a list of the most recent awardees:
In 2024, Joe Burrow, quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, received the honor. The previous year, in 2023, it was awarded to Joe Flacco, the Cleveland quarterback. Burrow also won this distinguished title in 2021 after making a significant recovery.
Moving back to 2022, Geno Smith, quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, received accolades for his remarkable comeback. Other noteworthy winners included Alex Smith from the Washington Football Team in 2020, who overcame serious injuries to return to the field.
The year 2019 saw Ryan Tannehill of the Tennessee Titans honored, while Andrew Luck, who played for the Indianapolis Colts, was celebrated in 2018. Keenan Allen, the wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers, received the award in 2017. Jordy Nelson, a wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, was recognized in 2016 for his impressive return to form after injuries.
Eric Berry, a safety with the Kansas City Chiefs, received the award in 2015, followed by tight end Rob Gronkowski of the New England Patriots in 2014. Philip Rivers, the quarterback for the San Diego Chargers, took home the award in 2013, while legendary quarterback Peyton Manning celebrated his comeback in 2012 with the Denver Broncos.
Matthew Stafford of the Detroit Lions was recognized in 2011, and in 2010, Michael Vick, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, received the prestigious title. Other notable recipients include Tom Brady in 2009, who played for the New England Patriots, and Chad Pennington, the Miami quarterback, in 2008.
Greg Ellis, a linebacker with the Dallas Cowboys, was celebrated in 2007, while Chad Pennington again impressed in 2006 as a member of the New York Jets. The list also includes several dual winners, such as Steve Smith, wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, and Tedy Bruschi, linebacker for the New England Patriots, both recognized in 2005.
The award’s history includes Drew Brees, who was honored in 2004 while with the San Diego Chargers, and Jon Kitna from the Cincinnati Bengals in 2003. Tommy Maddox received the accolade in 2002 for his performance with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Garrison Hearst, running back for the San Francisco 49ers, was awarded in 2001.
The turn of the millennium saw Joe Johnson, defensive end for the New Orleans Saints, awarded in 2000, followed by Bryant Young, defensive tackle for the San Francisco 49ers, in 1999. Doug Flutie, the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, was recognized in 1998 for his exciting comeback.
This list showcases the grit and determination of these athletes who bounced back from adversity to achieve greatness on the field, making their stories resonate with fans across the nation.
