The 10 Most Inspirational Comeback Stories in NFL History

The NFL is a league built on perseverance, where the toughest players overcome injuries, setbacks, and adversity to achieve greatness.

Throughout history, we’ve seen some of the most incredible comebacks—stories of resilience that inspire not just football fans, but anyone facing their own challenges. Here are the 10 most inspirational comeback stories in NFL history.

10. Alex Smith – The Miracle Return (2020)

Alex Smith’s comeback is nothing short of miraculous. After suffering a gruesome leg injury in 2018 that led to 17 surgeries and life-threatening complications, many believed he would never walk again, let alone play football. But against all odds, Smith returned to the field in 2020 and helped lead Washington to a division title, earning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award.

9. Peyton Manning – A Super Bowl Farewell (2015)

Peyton Manning’s legendary career nearly ended prematurely due to a series of neck surgeries that sidelined him for the entire 2011 season. After being released by the Colts, many doubted whether he could ever be the same. But Manning signed with the Broncos, broke numerous records, won an MVP, and capped off his career by winning Super Bowl 50 before retiring on top.

8. Adrian Peterson – MVP After Torn ACL (2012)

Most players need years to recover from an ACL tear—if they ever return to full form. But Adrian Peterson isn’t most players. After tearing his ACL and MCL late in 2011, Peterson returned just eight months later and put together one of the greatest seasons ever, rushing for 2,097 yards and winning MVP. His comeback redefined what was thought possible for running backs.

7. Teddy Bridgewater – Career-Saving Recovery (2017-2020)

Teddy Bridgewater 2014 MV TC — Openverse

Teddy Bridgewater was a rising star when he suffered a devastating knee injury in 2016 that nearly led to amputation. Many believed his career was over. But after years of rehab, he worked his way back, first as a backup, then proving he could still start in the league. His resilience and determination have made him one of the most respected players in the game.

6. Drew Brees – Shoulder Injury to Super Bowl Glory (2006-2010)

After suffering a severe shoulder injury in 2005, many doubted whether Drew Brees would ever be the same quarterback again. The Chargers moved on from him, and only the struggling Saints took a chance. Not only did Brees revive his career, but he also helped rebuild New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, leading the Saints to a Super Bowl win in 2010 and becoming one of the most beloved figures in NFL history.

5. Eric Berry – Beating Cancer & Returning to Pro Bowl Form (2015)

Eric Berry was one of the best safeties in the league when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2014. He underwent intense chemotherapy treatments and was out for nearly a year. Incredibly, he returned to the field in 2015 and was named First-Team All-Pro. His story of beating cancer and returning to elite form remains one of the most inspiring comebacks in NFL history.

4. Michael Vick – Redemption & a Second Chance (2009-2010)

After serving time in prison for dogfighting, Michael Vick’s career—and life—were in shambles. He lost everything. But instead of fading away, he worked his way back into the NFL, eventually earning the starting job with the Eagles in 2010. That season, he won Comeback Player of the Year and showed that second chances can lead to redemption.

3. Joe Theismann – From Career-Ending Injury to Broadcast Icon

Joe Theismann’s career ended with one of the most infamous injuries in NFL history when he suffered a compound leg fracture in 1985. Unlike others on this list, he never played again, but his comeback came in a different form. He transitioned to a long and successful broadcasting career, proving that sometimes the most inspiring comebacks happen off the field.

2. Tom Brady – Torn ACL to Super Bowl Dynasty (2008-2014)

Tom Brady was at the peak of his career when he tore his ACL in Week 1 of the 2008 season. Many questioned whether he could return to his elite form. Not only did he come back, but he went on to win three more Super Bowls with the Patriots and continued his dominance with the Buccaneers, proving that setbacks are just opportunities for greater comebacks.

1. Kurt Warner – From Grocery Store to Super Bowl MVP (1999)

No comeback story in NFL history is as improbable as Kurt Warner’s. Undrafted out of college, he was bagging groceries and playing in the Arena Football League before finally getting a shot with the Rams. When starter Trent Green went down in 1999, Warner took over, led the Rams to a Super Bowl win, and became one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history.