Morning 49ers Top 10 Plays, McCaffrey Named PFWA Comeback Player

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Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:07pm by Ben Kaplan

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The San Francisco 49ers had a productive 2025 season, with running back Christian McCaffrey earning multiple award nominations, including being named the PFWA's Comeback Player of the Year. Former 49ers quarterback John Brodie also passed away at the age of 90.

Why it matters

The 49ers' success in 2025 and the recognition of their star players like McCaffrey highlights the team's strong performance and ability to bounce back from previous setbacks. Brodie's passing also marks the end of an era for the franchise.

The details

McCaffrey was selected as the PFWA's 2025 NFL Comeback Player of the Year after returning to elite form following a shortened 2024 campaign. The Associated Press also announced finalists for eight of its 2025 NFL awards, and the 49ers were well represented, with McCaffrey earning finalist nods for three awards and head coach Kyle Shanahan being named a finalist for AP Coach of the Year.

  • On January 27, 2026, the San Francisco 49ers released their top storylines for the day.
  • On January 27, 2026, former San Francisco 49ers quarterback John Brodie passed away at the age of 90.

The players

Christian McCaffrey

An All-Pro running back for the San Francisco 49ers who was named the PFWA's 2025 NFL Comeback Player of the Year.

Kyle Shanahan

The head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, who was named a finalist for AP Coach of the Year in 2025.

John Brodie

A former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers who passed away at the age of 90.

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The takeaway

The San Francisco 49ers' strong 2025 season and the recognition of their key players, such as Christian McCaffrey, demonstrate the team's resilience and ability to bounce back from previous setbacks. The passing of former quarterback John Brodie also marks the end of an era for the franchise.