Christian McCaffrey Named AP Comeback Player of the Year: “One of the Hardest Years of My Life”
Christian McCaffrey’s return to dominance in 2025 wasn’t just a story of athletic excellence-it was a testament to relentless work ethic and personal resilience. The 49ers’ star running back capped off his remarkable season by being named the AP Comeback Player of the Year, an honor that reflects both the physical and emotional toll of his journey back to the top.
“From the time Jan. 1 happened, I was rehabbing and working my butt off every single day,” McCaffrey said. “My wife went through it. There was not a lot of time off.”
That grind paid off in a big way. McCaffrey didn’t just return-he exploded back onto the scene, anchoring San Francisco’s offense with the kind of versatility and explosiveness that made him one of the league’s most feared weapons. Whether it was slicing through defenses on the ground or making plays in the passing game, McCaffrey looked every bit like the All-Pro he’s been in the past.
What makes his comeback even more impressive is the consistency he showed across the season. There were no slow starts or midseason dips-just a player who looked determined to remind the league of exactly who he is. And now, with the Comeback Player of the Year award in hand, it’s clear the league took notice.
George Kittle Shares Encouraging Update on Achilles Recovery
While McCaffrey’s comeback story is complete, another key 49er is just beginning his own recovery journey. Tight end George Kittle is working his way back from an Achilles injury, and by the sound of it, he’s attacking rehab with the same energy he brings to the field.
“I’m literally only in this when I’m outside of my house,” Kittle said, referring to his walking boot. “The nice thing, too, is my trainers are coming to me right now, which is really convenient.”
Kittle detailed his current rehab regimen, which includes iso-holds and ankle exercises, all designed to rebuild strength and stability. He’s still not walking without assistance, but he’s progressing-expecting to transition between a boot and a shoe soon, with crutches likely needed for a few more weeks.
For a player who thrives on physicality and explosiveness, the road back from an Achilles injury is never easy. But if there’s anyone built to grind through it, it’s Kittle. His energy, toughness, and love for the game have always been his trademarks-and they’ll be key to his return.
49ers Add Familiar Name to Coaching Staff: Roman Sapolu
The 49ers are bringing in a new voice to their coaching staff, and it’s a name that carries some weight in franchise history. Roman Sapolu, son of former 49ers great Jesse Sapolu, is joining the organization in a coaching capacity.
Roman’s path to the NFL coaching ranks has been steadily building. He first got a taste of the 49ers’ culture back in 2018 through the Bill Walsh NFL Diversity Coaching Fellowship. From there, he carved out a strong resume at the college level, including stints as offensive line coach and run game coordinator at Fresno State, and later as co-offensive coordinator at the University of Hawai’i.
In 2024, Sapolu made the leap to the NFL with the Miami Dolphins as an offensive assistant. Now, he’s back in the Bay Area, bringing with him a deep understanding of offensive line play and a name that resonates in 49ers lore. His addition gives Kyle Shanahan’s staff another young, rising coach with a strong foundation and a personal connection to the franchise.
49ers Projected to Add Explosive YAC Threat in 2026 NFL Mock Draft
If Cynthia Frelund’s 2026 NFL mock draft is on the mark, the 49ers could be adding a dynamic new weapon to their offense-one tailor-made for Kyle Shanahan’s system.
The pick? A receiver known for his yards-after-catch (YAC) ability, a trait that’s been a staple of Shanahan’s scheme for years. According to Frelund, the prospect’s knack for creating separation and racking up YAC fits perfectly into San Francisco’s offensive philosophy.
The numbers back that up. In 2025, the wideout earned a 79.9 receiving grade from Pro Football Focus and totaled 440 yards after the catch. Over his career, he’s amassed 1,232 YAC yards-a clear sign of his ability to turn short throws into big plays.
Adding a player like that would only make life easier for whoever’s under center in 2026. With playmakers like McCaffrey already on the field, a new YAC threat would give Shanahan even more flexibility-and opposing defenses even more headaches.
Final Thoughts
From McCaffrey’s comeback to Kittle’s recovery, a coaching hire with deep roots, and a potential draft pick who fits the system like a glove, the 49ers are in the midst of an offseason that’s shaping their next chapter. If the pieces fall into place, San Francisco could be poised to stay near the top of the NFL’s power structure for years to come.