San Francisco 49ers: Season-End Awards for 2015

MVP – NaVorro Bowman

Ian Williams may have been the 49ers’ best player on defense but in truth there is only one candidate for the MVP.

Officially, the Niners gave their team MVP honor to kicker Phil Dawson, but the story of a dismal year surrounded the incredible return of NaVorro Bowman, whose performances in recovering from the sickening knee injury sustained in the NFC Championship game back in January 2014 were superb.

Bowman has clearly lost a step and that is not surprising given the lengthy rehabilitation process he had to go through just to get back on the field. However, his incredible instincts still enabled Bowman to lead the NFL in tackles with 154 .

Taking up the role as emotional leader of the defense, Bowman’s sensational comeback was the one thing San Francisco fans could smile about in 2015. And there was arguably no player more deserving of the Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors he earned as a result of his excellent play.

Because of the 49ers’ failure to reach the playoffs, Bowman’s third Pro Bowl nomination marks the first time he will actually play in the annual All-Star game. He is now a five-time first-team All-Pro and Bowman’s leadership will undoubtedly be key as the Niners transition into the Kelly era.

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