What Is 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year

Overview

The 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year award recognized athletes who returned from injury, illness, or absence to perform at an elite level. That year, the honor went to Michael Vick, the dynamic quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, for his resurgence after a severe leg injury.

Vick had not played a full season since 2002, missing most of 2003 and all of 2004 due to a fractured fibula sustained during a preseason game. His 2005 return marked a turning point in his career, showcasing improved passing accuracy and leadership.

• Michael Vick started 15 games in 2005, throwing for 2,411 yards and 20 touchdowns with only 13 interceptions, a career-best ratio at the time.
• He rushed for 599 yards on 110 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per carry, maintaining his reputation as a dual-threat quarterback.
• Vick’s performance helped the Falcons achieve a 9–7 record, a significant improvement from their 5–11 mark in 2004.
• The award was officially presented by The Sporting News, which has selected the winner since 1969 based on input from players, coaches, and media.
• Vick edged out other contenders like LaDainian Tomlinson and Terrell Owens, both of whom also returned from major setbacks that year.

How It Works

The NFL Comeback Player of the Year award honors athletes who overcome adversity—typically injury or personal issues—to return to peak performance. While not an official NFL award, it is widely recognized and reported across major sports outlets.

• Term: The award is given annually to a player who returns from a significant setback. Eligibility is informal, based on public perception and statistical rebound.
• Injury or absence must be substantial—such as missing most of a season or dealing with a career-threatening condition—to qualify as a 'comeback.'
• Performance metrics like passing yards, touchdowns, and team success are heavily weighed when determining the winner.
• Voting is conducted by The Sporting News through a panel of sportswriters, former players, and NFL executives.
• Timing matters—players returning in mid-season or showing dramatic improvement are more likely to be recognized than those with gradual recoveries.
• Multiple wins are rare; only a few players, like Boomer Esiason and Tom Brady, have won it more than once.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of Michael Vick’s 2005 season against his 2003 and 2006 performances to illustrate his comeback trajectory.

The table highlights Vick’s strong rebound in 2005, nearly doubling his passing output from 2003 and remaining a consistent rushing threat. While he missed 2004 entirely, his 2005 stats were close to his career averages, validating the comeback label. His 20-touchdown season was a personal best at the time and demonstrated growth as a passer.

Why It Matters

The 2005 Comeback Player of the Year award underscored the resilience required in professional football and spotlighted Vick’s evolution from a raw athlete to a more complete quarterback. It also brought attention to how injuries can derail careers—and how recovery can redefine them.

• Public perception of Vick shifted positively after 2005, helping rebuild his image following earlier criticism about his passing accuracy.
• The award highlighted the importance of durability in evaluating quarterback value, especially for mobile players prone to hits.
• For the Falcons, Vick’s return provided stability and a franchise cornerstone during a transitional period.
• It demonstrated that comeback narratives can influence MVP and award voting, even without a playoff berth.
• The recognition helped Vick secure a 10-year, $130 million contract extension in 2004, though it was later restructured.
• It set a precedent for future winners who overcame adversity, such as Troy Aikman in 1994 and Andrew Luck in 2018.

Ultimately, Michael Vick’s 2005 season remains a benchmark for athletic resilience and the transformative power of a successful comeback in the NFL.