(Indianapolis, IN — February 28, 2024) – The NFL Physicians Society (NFLPS) hosted an awards ceremony at its annual Scientific Meeting during the NFL Scouting Combine where it honored Jeff Ferguson of the Jacksonville Jaguars with the Fain-Cain Memorial Award for Outstanding NFL Athletic Trainer of the Year.
“Ferg embodies the very best in what an Athletic Trainer should be in today’s NFL. His care for the players, medical knowledge, personality, ability to lead, while also helping his staff grow in their careers is second to none. I’m honored to work with him and proud to present the prestigious 2024 Fain Cain Memorial Award on behalf of our NFL Physicians Society,” said Kevin Kaplan, M.D., Head Team Physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
“Everyone knows Ferg! Whether we’re at home or on the road, Jeff is greeted by his colleagues and the opposing team’s staff with smiles, handshakes and hugs. There’s usually a great story or two for all to reminisce about. Jeff brings out the best in his medical team, and his ability to connect with players and care for their wellbeing is second to none,” said Michael A. Yorio, M.D., team physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
“I worked with Ferg for more than ten years and he was a natural born leader, a motivator and someone the players and team doctors relied on day in and day out. He’s the guy you want in the foxhole with you. I cannot think of a more deserving athletic trainer for this prestigious award,” said outgoing NFLPS President and 49ers’ Head Team Physician Dr. Tim McAdams.
Ferguson currently serves as the Vice President of Player Health and Performance for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He also served as the team’s Director of Athletic Training.
Prior to joining the Jaguars’ staff, Ferguson had a long career with the San Francisco 49ers. He was initially hired as the Head Athletic Trainer and was soon after promoted to the Director of Football Operations and Sports Medicine in 2011. He went on to become the Vice President of Medical Services while also continuing his work as the athletic trainer.
Ferguson briefly worked as the Vice President of Player Health and Safety for the XFL and provided excellent insights into health and safety. He was instrumental in creating the league’s covid-19 task force that implemented health and safety best practices. He is also a certified member of the National Athletic Trainers (NATA).
The Fain-Cain Award is named for Dr. Thomas E. Cain, M.D., and Dr. Robert H. Fain, M.D., both long-time team physicians for the former Houston Oilers. The award was established shortly after Dr. Cain’s death and Dr. Fain’s retirement. The award is given annually to an NFL athletic trainer who best reflects the virtues of a certified athletic trainer and displays the highest level of professionalism.
The winner of the last Fain-Cain Award was Todd Toriscelli of the Tennessee Titans. A full list of previous winners can be found here.
