Christian McCaffrey, running back for the San Francisco 49ers, has been named the recipient of the 15th annual Salute to Service Award by the NFL and USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service Partner. This award celebrates outstanding contributions from NFL members who support and honor the military community. McCaffrey will receive recognition at the NFL Honors event on Thursday, February 5, during Super Bowl LX in San Francisco.
Leadership Praise Highlights McCaffrey’s Dedication
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed the league’s admiration for McCaffrey’s work. He emphasized McCaffrey’s
“unwavering commitment to America’s service members and advocacy through his own foundation”
as key reasons for selecting him as the award winner. Juan C. Andrade, president and CEO of USAA, also commended McCaffrey, stating his consistent efforts to support veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families extend well beyond the football field.
Ongoing Partnership Between NFL and USAA to Support Veterans
The Salute to Service Award has been a significant part of the NFL’s and USAA’s dedication to military appreciation for 15 years. USAA, which provides insurance, banking, and financial services for U.S. service members and veterans, donates $25,000 in McCaffrey’s name to official military aid societies. Additionally, the NFL Foundation matches this amount by contributing another $25,000 to McCaffrey’s chosen military charity, reinforcing financial support for military families and veterans.
McCaffrey’s Advocacy Rooted in Personal Respect and Health Focus
McCaffrey embodies the values of honoring, empowering, and connecting with service members. His passion is deeply tied to mental and physical health, which drives his commitment to the military community. This mission reflects the same determination and discipline he demonstrates on the football field. His approach highlights the importance of whole-person wellness and the necessity to support those who have sacrificed for their country.
Christian McCaffrey Foundation’s Impact on Veterans and Military Families
Through the Christian McCaffrey Foundation, he has elevated the lives of active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families. The foundation’s main project, 23 and Troops, launched in 2021, offers a comprehensive, medically informed program to aid Special Operations veterans coping with post-traumatic stress. The initiative has channeled nearly $700,000 toward veteran support, including $250,000 to REBOOT Recovery and a recent $250,000 partnership with Resilience Code, providing a full year of personalized medical care for veterans. The foundation has also helped 515 military families by funding outstanding holiday layaway bills.
Active Engagement and Advocacy Beyond the Field
In addition to leading his foundation’s efforts, McCaffrey frequently connects with active duty members, veterans, and their families during NFL’s Salute to Service programs. He uses platforms such as the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats initiative to highlight 23 and Troops and advocate for military support. His involvement demonstrates a consistent and heartfelt dedication to advancing resources and recognition for those who serve the nation.
Christian McCaffrey’s Reflection on Receiving the Award
“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Salute to Service Award and to be recognized alongside so many across the league who are committed to supporting our military community,”
McCaffrey shared.
This honor means a lot because it reflects the strength, sacrifice, and resilience of the men and women who serve our country. Football has given me a platform, and I believe it comes with a responsibility to serve others the right way. As an athlete, I’ve been fortunate to have access to the best care and recovery resources available, and I believe our service members and veterans deserve that same level of intentional support as they heal from both the visible and invisible wounds of service. Through the Christian McCaffrey Foundation and our 23 and Troops initiative, we’re committed to helping connect military families, service members, and veterans with the care they need on their path to healing. I’m grateful for this recognition, but the real credit belongs to the men and women who serve. This is for them.”
Fan Participation and Selective Judging Process
Fans played an active role in narrowing down the finalists for the Salute to Service Award through an online voting process. The top fan-selected nominees were then reviewed by an internal NFL committee and USAA, evaluating their military support efforts. Criteria included the positive impact, scope, and depth of their military-related activities alongside overall devotion to the cause. Along with McCaffrey, Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. and Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson were recognized as finalists.
Distinguished Panel of Judges Chose the Award Winner
The official Salute to Service Award recipient was determined by a panel that included representatives from the U.S. military community, the NFL, and USAA. Members of the judging panel were Major General (Ret.) Bob Whittle, USAA Senior Vice President and Army veteran; George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers tight end and 2024 Salute to Service Award recipient; Chad Hennings, Air Force Academy graduate and three-time Super Bowl champion; Jim Mora, Sr., Marine Corps veteran and former NFL head coach; and Christine Dorfler, NFL Chief Financial Officer and Army veteran.
Recognizing the Broader Impact of Military Support Through Football
The recognition of Christian McCaffrey with the Salute to Service Award underscores the powerful connection between sports and honoring military service. His dedication and that of the NFL and USAA amplify awareness and resources for military families and veterans nationwide. As the award ceremony approaches during Super Bowl LX, McCaffrey’s honor serves as an inspiring example of how athletes can leverage their influence to promote meaningful change and sustained commitment to those who serve the United States.
