Christian McCaffrey adds some prestigious NFL hardware to his collection.
Christian McCaffrey’s impact continues to stretch far beyond the football field.
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, recognizing his extensive commitment to supporting military members, veterans, and their families.
McCaffrey was officially announced as the 2025 recipient on Wednesday and will be honored during the NFL Honors ceremony ahead of Super Bowl festivities.
McCaffrey edged out Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. and Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson for the award, which reflects work done off the field rather than athletic achievement.
The accolade highlights his sustained advocacy for military personnel through the Christian McCaffrey Foundation and its flagship initiative, “23 and Troops.”
The program provides a comprehensive, medically focused approach to helping Special Operations veterans recover from post-traumatic stress.
The initiative has already directed close to $700,000 toward military-related support, including major contributions to REBOOT Recovery and a partnership with Resilience Code that delivers a full year of individualized medical care for veterans.
The foundation has also provided practical help for military families, including paying off holiday layaway balances for more than 500 households a gesture aimed at easing seasonal financial strain.
For McCaffrey, the connection to service members is personal and ongoing.
He regularly spends time with active-duty personnel, veterans, and their loved ones while also spotlighting military causes through league programs such as My Cause My Cleats.
He sees the platform football provides as an opportunity to give back.
“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.”
As part of the award, USAA will donate $25,000 in McCaffrey’s name to official military aid societies across all service branches.
The NFL Foundation will match that amount with an additional $25,000 donation directed to his military-focused charitable efforts.
This marks the second straight year a 49ers player has received the Salute to Service Award, following tight end George Kittle in 2024.
McCaffrey noted the significance of continuing that legacy within the organization, emphasizing the team’s strong connection to military appreciation efforts.
Commissioner Roger Goodell praised McCaffrey’s dedication, citing his consistent advocacy and meaningful impact on service members’ health and well-being.
While McCaffrey remains one of the league’s most dynamic offensive players, this honor highlights another side of his legacy, one built on service and a sustained effort to support those who serve the country.