Christian McCaffrey Wins Prestigious Bart Starr Award, Eyes NFC Divisional Showdown
SANTA CLARA, Calif., January 17, 2026 – San Francisco 49ers All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey has been named the winner of the 2026 Bart Starr Award, recognizing his outstanding character and leadership on and off the field. The honor comes on the heels of a clutch two-touchdown performance that propelled the 49ers past the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card round, setting up a high-stakes NFC Divisional rematch with the Seattle Seahawks.
A Leader Recognized
The Bart Starr Award, presented by Athletes in Action, honors an NFL player who best exemplifies outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field, and in the community. McCaffrey will be formally recognized at the Athletes in Action Super Bowl Breakfast during Super Bowl LX weekend in San Francisco. This accolade adds to a week of recognition for the ninth-year veteran, who was also announced as a finalist for the 2025 NFL Salute to Service Award presented by USAA for his work with the military community through his “23 and Troops” foundation.
Wild Card Heroics
With star tight end George Kittle lost to an Achilles injury in the second quarter, McCaffrey shouldered the offensive burden in the 49ers’ 23-19 road victory over the Eagles on January 11. The 29-year-old workhorse tallied 114 total yards from scrimmage, catching a pair of touchdown passes from Brock Purdy—including the game-winning 4-yard score. His performance underscored his value as the focal point of San Francisco’s attack, especially with Kittle out for the remainder of the postseason.
Christian McCaffrey’s 2025 Season at a Glance
| Category | Regular Season | Postseason (1 Game) |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,202 (8th in NFL) | 48 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 10 (T-9th) | 0 |
| Receptions | 102 | 6 |
| Receiving Yards | 924 | 66 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | 7 | 2 |
| Total Touches | 413 (League High) | 21 |
| All-Purpose Yards | 2,126 | 114 |
Road Through Seattle
The 49ers’ playoff path now runs through Lumen Field, where they will face the top-seeded Seattle Seahawks (14-3) in the Divisional Round. The teams split their regular-season meetings, with the Seahawks winning the most recent matchup 13-3 in Week 18, a game where McCaffrey was held to 57 total yards. The 49ers will need their offensive centerpiece to be more impactful as a receiver, especially with Kittle sidelined, to advance to a potential eighth NFC Championship Game in the last nine seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bart Starr Award?
The Bart Starr Award is given annually to an NFL player who demonstrates outstanding character, leadership, and commitment to his family, teammates, and community. It is voted on by NFL players and presented by the Christian organization Athletes in Action.
What is McCaffrey’s status for the game against Seattle?
Christian McCaffrey is healthy and expected to be a full participant in the 49ers’ Divisional Round matchup against the Seahawks. He has not appeared on the injury report with any significant issues leading up to the game.
How have the 49ers performed without George Kittle?
The 49ers secured their Wild Card victory over Philadelphia immediately after Kittle’s injury, demonstrating resilience. However, Kittle’s absence as a premier pass-catching tight end and locker room leader presents a significant challenge. McCaffrey and wide receiver Jauan Jennings, who threw a touchdown pass to McCaffrey on a trick play against the Eagles, will be relied upon heavily to fill the void.
What are the 49ers’ playoff prospects?
Despite numerous injuries to key players throughout the season, the 49ers finished 12-5 and have already notched a playoff win on the road. With a healthy McCaffrey leading the offense and a defense that has found ways to adapt, they are considered a formidable opponent for the top-seeded Seahawks, with the winner advancing to the NFC Championship Game.