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The NFL Comeback Player of the Year (CPOY) Award is a gritty honor given annually to a player who has shown perseverance, resilience and an exceptional return to form following a challenging setback. This award celebrates athletic excellence in conjunction with the determination and mental toughness required to overcome adversity.
Understanding the history of the CPOY Award offers insight into the inspiring stories of NFL players who have battled injuries, personal issues or poor performance to achieve remarkable comebacks.
Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) first introduced the NFL CPOY Award in 1972. It was created to recognize players who have successfully bounced back from setbacks such as injuries, illnesses or subpar performances. The Associated Press (AP) began presenting its version of the award in 1998, and it has since become the most widely recognized and esteemed honor among the various CPOY awards.
New England Patriots: The Patriots have had three players win the CPOY Award, showcasing their ability and commitment to support players who need to make significant comebacks. Notable winners include Tom Brady (2009) and Rob Gronkowski (2014).
San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers have also had three CPOY winners. Notable winners include Philip Rivers (2013), who returned to form following a challenging season.
Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals have had two CPOY winners, including quarterback Jon Kitna (2003), who helped lead the team to a better performance after years of struggles.
San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers have also produced two CPOY winners, such as quarterback Alex Smith (2011), who revitalized his career under coach Jim Harbaugh.
Many CPOY winners have not only enjoyed remarkable comebacks but also went on to have significant and impactful careers. Here are a few notable examples:
Tom Brady (2009): Brady’s comeback from a torn ACL in 2008 was nothing short of extraordinary. He returned to lead the Patriots to a 10-6 record, throwing for 4,398 yards and 28 touchdowns. Brady’s resilience and continued success solidified his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Peyton Manning (2012): After missing the entire 2011 season due to neck surgery, Manning joined the Denver Broncos and had a phenomenal comeback season. He threw for 4,659 yards and 37 touchdowns, leading the Broncos to a 13-3 record. Manning’s comeback was a testament to his determination and skill, ultimately leading him to another Super Bowl victory in 2015.
Alex Smith (2020): Smith’s comeback story is one of the most inspiring in NFL history. After suffering a gruesome leg injury in 2018 that required 17 surgeries and nearly cost him his life, Smith returned to the field in 2020. He would go on to lead Washington to a division title.
Andrew Luck (2018): Luck missed the entire 2017 season due to a shoulder injury but returned in 2018 to throw for 4,593 yards and 39 touchdowns, leading the Indianapolis Colts to the playoffs. His comeback highlighted his talent and resilience, though he retired unexpectedly the following year due to ongoing injury concerns.
Rob Gronkowski (2014): Gronkowski bounced back from a series of injuries that plagued his 2013 season to post 82 receptions, 1,124 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2014. His return to form was instrumental in the Patriots’ Super Bowl-winning campaign.
The CPOY Award celebrates more than statistical success; it honors the spirit of perseverance and the ability to overcome significant obstacles. Winning the CPOY signifies a turning point in a player’s career, where they have triumphed over adversity to return to peak performance. The stories of these players serve as inspiration to fans and fellow athletes alike, showcasing the human spirit’s resilience.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.