Christian McCaffrey just added another accolade to an already impressive résumé - and this one has nothing to do with touchdowns or rushing yards.
The San Francisco 49ers All-Pro running back has been named the recipient of the NFL’s 15th annual Salute to Service Award presented by USAA, honoring his deep and ongoing commitment to supporting military members, veterans, and their families. The announcement was made Wednesday, and McCaffrey will be formally recognized during the NFL Honors ceremony ahead of Super Bowl festivities.
This isn’t about what McCaffrey does on Sundays - it’s about what he does every other day of the week. And he’s been doing a lot.
McCaffrey edged out Minnesota’s Aaron Jones Sr. and Dallas tight end Jake Ferguson for the award, which recognizes off-the-field impact rather than on-field performance. And in McCaffrey’s case, that impact has been both personal and powerful.
At the heart of his efforts is the Christian McCaffrey Foundation and its signature initiative, “23 and Troops.” This program takes a medically focused approach to helping Special Operations veterans recover from post-traumatic stress - a mission that’s already generated nearly $700,000 in support for military-related causes.
That funding has gone toward organizations like REBOOT Recovery and a partnership with Resilience Code, which provides veterans with a full year of individualized medical care. It’s not just a one-time gesture - it’s a sustained, structured effort to help those who’ve served our country heal and thrive.
But McCaffrey’s commitment goes beyond the medical side. His foundation has stepped in to support military families in more practical ways, too - like paying off holiday layaway balances for over 500 households, easing the financial pressure that often comes with the season.
And it’s not just about writing checks. McCaffrey regularly spends time with active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families - building relationships, listening to their stories, and using his platform to amplify their voices. Whether it’s through league-wide initiatives like My Cause My Cleats or his own foundation’s work, he’s made it clear that this cause is close to his heart.
“I feel extremely fortunate,” McCaffrey said after learning of the honor. “Football is something I love, but being able to support the people who sacrifice for our country is far bigger than the game.”
That mindset is exactly what the Salute to Service Award is all about. As part of the honor, USAA will donate $25,000 in McCaffrey’s name to official military aid societies across all service branches. The NFL Foundation will match that with another $25,000, directed toward his military-focused charitable work.
This marks the second straight year a 49ers player has received the award - tight end George Kittle earned it in 2024 - and McCaffrey acknowledged how meaningful it is to carry on that tradition within the organization. The Niners have long emphasized their connection to military appreciation efforts, and McCaffrey’s work only strengthens that bond.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised McCaffrey’s dedication, pointing to the consistent, hands-on nature of his advocacy and the real-world impact it’s having on service members’ health and well-being.
On the field, McCaffrey remains one of the league’s most electric offensive weapons - a game-changer every time he touches the ball. But this award shines a light on another side of his legacy: one built on service, compassion, and a deep respect for those who serve.
In a league filled with stars, McCaffrey’s commitment off the field reminds us that greatness isn’t just measured in yards and touchdowns. Sometimes, it’s measured in lives changed.