The AFMA determines its player of the year by pooling all the media awards on offer across television, print and radio.
Announced at the MCG on Wednesday night, club president Eddie McGuire accepted the award on behalf of the midfielder.
"When I saw him this morning at the club, he told me he was truly honoured to be awarded this accolade."
Swan addressed the media assembly via a pre-recorded video.
"Sorry I can't be there tonight, but it's a great honour to have won the Australian Football Media Association Player of the Year. I know it's voted by everyone in the media so it means a lot."
The 2008 Copeland Trophy winner has had a remarkable season and has been acknowledged with All-Australian status, winning the Herald Sun Player of the Year award and finishing runner-up in the AFL Players' Association's most valuable player.
