Some other names to throw in the mix:
Nick Saban, Alabama head football coach
Andrew McCutcheon, Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder, taking them to the playoffs after 21 year drought
Peyton Manning, having one hell of a comeback after his year off two years ago (but probably too far removed for that to make him SOTY)
Bud Selig, MLB Commissioner, who announced he’ll retire after next season (actually, he’s a good bet for next year for this reason - and probably why Stern won’t win this year)
LeBron James - have they ever given it to the same person in consecutive years?