A recent post in a sports subreddit highlighted the confirmation that AP will not reject the votes for Sam Darnold’s Comeback Player of the Year (CPOY). The sentiment around Darnold’s season reflects a mix of hope and skepticism concerning his trajectory. While some fans celebrate his potential breakthrough season, others contemplate the historical context of the award and suggest the need for new categories that better encapsulate players’ progress.
Summary
- The confirmation of Sam Darnold’s CPOY votes has triggered discussions about the awards system in the NFL.
- There’s a strong case for introducing new award categories to recognize players’ breakthroughs more accurately.
- Fans expressed skepticism regarding historical award winners, questioning the validity of past selections.
- Participants in the discussion highlighted the amusing pattern in award winners’ backgrounds, often showcasing their rebounds from previous struggles.
The Context of CPOY Votes
In the wake of Darnold’s situation, the notion of the Comeback Player of the Year award has come under scrutiny. The award traditionally recognizes players who recover from injury or personal setbacks to achieve career-best moments. However, some fans see a pattern that seems to favor players who were previously labeled as “failed” more so than those visibly improving over time. For instance, one comment, echoing the views of many, states, “It’s very amusing that 3 of the past 5 winners have just been ‘come back from sucking.'” This sentiment sheds light on a broader issue; while celebrating individual triumphs, it might unintentionally undermine the recognition of sustained, gradual improvement over seasons.
A Call for New Award Categories
Some users proposed the establishment of new awards. A user mentioned, “Someone in our sub said they should make a breakthrough player of the year award for seasons like what Sam is having and what Geno had and I think that’s a great idea.” This idea stands out as a significant suggestion since it strives to appreciate players who might not have hit rock bottom but are breaking through to new heights nonetheless. Not every player’s journey is about bouncing back; some simply evolve and refine their skills over time. Having a dedicated award to recognize those players could motivate many young talents.
Historical Perspectives on Award Winners
A notable mention in the comments came from a user questioning how Chad Pennington snagged the award twice within three years. This atmospheric inquiry shows a long-standing curiosity about the criteria used to determine winners. Fans often find themselves bewildered by the selection process, particularly when past winners have had performances viewed as inconsistently efficient or even underwhelming by some standards. The expectation for a more transparent voting system or clearer criteria is a simmering discussion point within the community. This historical context not only adds layers to Darnold’s situation but reveals how entrenched the fans are in their desire for a fair recognition system.
Conversations Around Player Growth
The back-and-forth among fans highlighted how perspectives on player growth are ever-changing. Many users, including one who posited, “Until they add a ‘Most Improved’ award he should probably get this title this year,” encapsulate a growing urge in sports discussions. Players like Darnold might not fit neatly into existing categories due to their fluctuating career arcs. Recognizing improvement, not just recovery, aligns with the modern vision of athlete development. Fans seem eager for awards that reflect the diverse experiences athletes undergo in their careers, affording them the space to thrive without being boxed into narrow success narratives.
As discussions unfold about Sam Darnold’s situation, the community ethos remains steeped in tradition yet is yearning for innovation. While the awards have embodied a historical narrative, perspectives from fans reveal a robust desire to keep pace with the evolution of the game and its players. Whether through the lens of laughter or critique, these conversations enrich the understanding of sports awards, illuminating the need for change. As the NFL progresses, so too may the awards system to enable every player to receive recognition reflective of their journey.