Latest update: NFL Honors officially wrapped up the league’s 2025 season by recognizing the year’s top performers during the annual awards ceremony in San Francisco ahead of Super Bowl 60. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford earned his first NFL Most Valuable Player award after a standout campaign, while several first-time winners highlighted one of the most memorable editions of the event in recent years.
The ceremony honored achievements on and off the field, celebrated breakthrough performances, and shifted the league’s attention toward Super Bowl weekend, where the final game of the season will decide the championship.
The NFL brought its annual awards season to a close at NFL Honors 2026 in San Francisco, recognizing the players, coaches and contributors who shaped the 2025 campaign. Held just days before Super Bowl 60, the event highlighted both career-defining performances and emerging stars while providing one final look back before the league crowns its champion.
Matthew Stafford finally earns NFL MVP
The night’s biggest honor went to Matthew Stafford, who secured the first NFL MVP award of his 17-year professional career. After years of consistently producing at a high level, Stafford delivered a season that convinced voters he deserved football’s highest individual recognition.
His victory capped one of the league’s strongest quarterback campaigns and reinforced how valuable experienced leadership remains in today’s NFL. Stafford prevailed over a finalist group that included Josh Allen, Drake Maye, Trevor Lawrence and Christian McCaffrey.
Major award winners from NFL Honors 2026
Several players collected the first major individual awards of their careers. Jaxon Smith-Njigba received Offensive Player of the Year after establishing himself among the league’s premier receiving threats during the season.
On defense, Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger was named Defensive Rookie of the Year following an impressive debut campaign that quickly made him one of the NFL’s most productive young defenders.
Carolina Panthers receiver Tetairoa McMillan earned Offensive Rookie of the Year after surpassing the 1,000-yard receiving mark, while Mike Vrabel collected Coach of the Year honors after leading New England through one of the league’s biggest year-over-year improvements.
The comeback story belonged to Christian McCaffrey, whose return from injury earned him Comeback Player of the Year following another elite all-around offensive season.
Historic defensive and offensive recognition
Defensive end Myles Garrett added another major accomplishment to his résumé by winning Defensive Player of the Year after a dominant season that featured a record-setting pass-rushing performance.
Meanwhile, veteran offensive lineman Joe Thuney became the first recipient of the NFL’s new Protector of the Year Award, recognizing excellence in offensive line play. The honor reflects the league’s growing emphasis on protecting quarterbacks and acknowledging positions that rarely receive national awards.
The annual FedEx Air & Ground awards recognized Drake Maye, Christian McCaffrey and Jaxon Smith-Njigba for their offensive production throughout the season.
Recognition beyond the playing field
NFL Honors continued its tradition of celebrating contributions away from football. Philadelphia Eagles supporter Ed Callahan received the NFL Fan of the Year award, while Christian McCaffrey earned the league’s prestigious Salute to Service Award for his community work and commitment to military-related initiatives.
The evening also included the announcement of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, a reveal that generated widespread discussion among fans and analysts following several notable selections and omissions.
Why the NFL Honors awards matter
While the Super Bowl determines the league champion, NFL Honors provides the official record of the season’s individual achievements. The Associated Press awards presented during the ceremony have become some of the most respected honors in professional football and often influence Hall of Fame discussions in the years ahead.
The event has grown into one of Super Bowl week’s signature attractions by recognizing excellence across every part of the game—from star quarterbacks and defensive standouts to coaches, rookies and community leaders.
As attention shifts to the championship game, fans can also explore our latest Super Bowl 60 coverage for news, schedules and analysis heading into football’s biggest weekend.
Official award winners, voting information and league announcements are available through the NFL.
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