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49ers WR Goodwin overcomes adversity, wins Halas Award
49ers

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Marquise Goodwin has won the 2018 George Halas Award from the Professional Football Writers of America.

The Halas Award is given to a NFL player, coach or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed. Goodwin had a career year on the field while dealing with family tragedies during the 2017 season.

Goodwin was signed as an unrestricted free agent last year. His wife, Morgan, lost a premature baby boy due to complications during pregnancy on Nov. 12. Hours later, he caught an 83-yard touchdown pass, the longest by a 49ers player since 2014. He blew a kiss to the sky before crossing the goal line, and dropped to his knees in the end zone in prayer, overcome with emotion.

Goodwin also went through the loss of his biological father in December, then was carted off the field after being injured in the season finale. He finished with 56 receptions for 962 yards and two touchdowns and was third in the NFL in reception average at 17.2 yards.

He is the 50th Halas Award winner.

Other 2018 nominees were Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen, Eagles quarterback Nick Foles, Giants tackle Nate Solder and Vikings coach Mike Zimmer.