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When talking about candidates for the comeback player of the year in 2012 the conversation will usually center around Peyton Manning moving to the Denver Broncos. Because of who Manning is, and the fact that he didn't play last year -- meaning he's qualified to win this award -- he seems like the logical choice to win it.
Manning has history on his side. 42 players have won the comeback player of the year award and 21 of those were quarterbacks.
The second position that most often wins the award? Running back.
A running back has won the award 12 times, the second most common position for the award. And if Jamaal Charles can duplicate his 1,467-yard season from 2010 after going on injured reserve with a torn ACL in Week Two last season, he very well might challenge Manning for the trophy.
Playing quarterback is a lot harder than playing running back, at least from a skills standpoint. At his age, Manning may have some early-season troubles before he finds his groove. Charles, if he's healthy, may not have as many problems getting off to a fast start.
Charles should be one of the leading candidates for this award, especially if he can eclipse 1,400 yards again, as he did pre-ACL tear.