2013 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Candidates

Comeback Player of the Year is a coveted award by players who are overcoming adversity from the previous season. In 2012, the NFL saw two amazing comebacks in quarterback Peyton Manning and running back Adrian Peterson. The 2013 field for potential comebacks is much bigger than usual as there were many key injuries last season. Here is a list of potential 2013 Comeback Player of the Year recipients.

Maurice Jones-Drew – RB Jacksonville Jaguars
MJD is a prime candidate for Comeback Player of the Year. Jones-Drew played in only six games in 2012 and had 414 yards with one touchdown and one interception. After coming off his career high in rushing yards at 1,606, he could not get past a foot injury that needs surgery. He is expected to be fully healed and ready for next season, and the Jaguars should rely on him heavily.

Lardarius Webb – CB Baltimore Ravens
Lardarius Webb had a breakout year in 2011 and was considered a Pro Bowl candidate for the 2012 season. Unfortunately for Webb and the Baltimore Ravens, Webb tore his ACL and was lost for the season after playing in just six games. Defensive backs don’t usually have a chance to garner enough attention to win an award like Comeback Player of the Year, but with Webb’s level of talent, and if he can have another strong season for the Ravens, he has a solid chance.

Brian Cushing – ILB Houston Texans
Brian Cushing is one of the most dominant inside linebackers in the NFL. Cushing was only able to play in five games after suffering a knee injury that required surgery. Look for Cushing to make a big impact in 2013 and to lead a strong Houston Texans defense.

Percy Harvin – WR Minnesota Vikings
As one of the most talented young playmakers in the NFL, Percy Harvin should have a strong season after returning from injuries. Harvin missed the final seven games and the postseason after an ankle injury forced the Minnesota Vikings to place him on injured reserve. Harvin was on track for a 100 reception year and over 1,200 yards receiving before he got hurt. He will return to put up career highs as long as he can avoid injuries.

Darrelle Revis – DB New York Jets
Darrelle Revis is one of the best defensive backs in the league, if not the best. The Jets’ defense struggled most of the season, and could benefit greatly from his return. If Revis can return as a shutdown corner, he has a good shot at the award.

Brian Orakpo – OLB Washington Redskins
Brian Orakpo is more than just an actor on Geico commercials, he is an aggressive linebacker on a much improved Washington Redskins defense. In 2011, Orakpo had 59 combined tackles, nine sacks, and three forced fumbles. He only played in two games last season, and will comeback healthy in 2013 ready to return to the Pro Bowl.

LeSean McCoy – RB Philadelphia Eagles
The 2012 NFL season was an awful one for Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy. McCoy played in 12 games last season and only had three games with over 20 carries, and only three games with over 100 yards rushing. He also only scored a combined five touchdowns with four fumbles. Head coach Andy Reid has been fired and as the team restructures, they should rely heavily on their most talented players, which should be based around McCoy. Expect a great comeback season and a very good shot at the award.

Jahvid Best – RB Detroit Lions
Detroit Lions running back Jahvid Best is a far reach for comeback player of the year, but he is worth mentioning. Due to recurring concussions, Best has not played since October of 2011. After more than a season and a half off, Best will attempt a comeback. If he is able to stay healthy and lead the team in rushing, it would be a remarkable comeback story.

*All statistics from ESPN via ESPN.com