Ahead of Super Bowl LX, the NFL celebrated its biggest individual achievements at the NFL Honors 2025 ceremony held at the iconic Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. With the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots preparing to face off at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, the league paused to recognize the players, coaches, and leaders who defined the 2025 season. The evening was a tribute to excellence, resilience, and unforgettable performances across the NFL.
Defensive Player of the Year: Myles Garrett’s Historic Dominance
Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett set the tone for the night by claiming Defensive Player of the Year honors. Garrett delivered a season for the ages, breaking the NFL’s single-season sack record while consistently facing double teams and extra blocking attention. Beyond the sack numbers, his impact against the run and in backfield disruption made him one of the most complete defensive players of the modern era and the unquestioned centerpiece of Cleveland’s elite defense.
Most Valuable Player: Matthew Stafford’s Career-Best Season
The NFL’s most prestigious individual award, Most Valuable Player, went to Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. At 37 years old and in his 17th NFL season, Stafford produced the most efficient and productive campaign of his career. He led the league in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and touchdown-to-interception ratio, showcasing elite decision-making and arm talent. His extended streak without an interception during the middle of the season became one of the most remarkable quarterback achievements in league history and solidified his place among the game’s greats.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tetairoa McMillan’s Immediate Impact
Tetairoa McMillan of the Carolina Panthers earned Offensive Rookie of the Year after a debut season that exceeded expectations. Selected eighth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, McMillan quickly emerged as a true No. 1 receiver. His ability to create separation, generate explosive plays, and deliver in critical moments transformed Carolina’s passing attack and provided quarterback Bryce Young with a dependable and dynamic target throughout the season.
Protector of the Year: Joe Thuney’s Offensive Line Excellence
The NFL introduced a new honor in 2025, Protector of the Year, and Chicago Bears guard Joe Thuney became its inaugural recipient. Thuney’s arrival instantly stabilized the Bears’ offensive line, significantly improving quarterback protection and overall offensive efficiency. His consistency, durability, and versatility—highlighted by his willingness to shift positions when needed—defined the standard for offensive line play and earned him league-wide recognition.
Comeback Player of the Year: Christian McCaffrey’s Triumphant Return
After battling serious injuries that limited his previous season, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey returned to form in spectacular fashion, winning Comeback Player of the Year. McCaffrey was the heartbeat of the 49ers’ offense, combining rushing, receiving, and durability at an elite level.
His ability to stay healthy, carry a heavy workload, and perform consistently under pressure made his 2025 campaign one of the most impressive comebacks in recent NFL history.
Coach of the Year: Mike Vrabel’s Remarkable Turnaround
Mike Vrabel was named Coach of the Year after engineering one of the greatest single-season turnarounds in NFL history with the New England Patriots. Taking over a team that had struggled in recent seasons, Vrabel instilled a culture built on accountability, connection, and toughness. His leadership transformed the Patriots into a Super Bowl team, earning widespread respect from players and peers alike.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Carson Schwesinger’s Rapid Rise
Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger captured Defensive Rookie of the Year honors with a season that showcased maturity well beyond his experience. A former walk-on, Schwesinger quickly became the leader of the Browns’ defense, demonstrating exceptional instincts, tackling ability, and command of the system. His performance made him one of the most impactful rookies in the league.
Offensive Player of the Year: Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Breakout Performance
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba was named Offensive Player of the Year after delivering the most productive receiving season in franchise history. Despite playing in one of the league’s most run-heavy offenses, Smith-Njigba consistently produced at an elite level and delivered several signature performances in high-pressure games, including the postseason.
Assistant Coach of the Year: Josh McDaniels’ Offensive Mastery
New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels earned Assistant Coach of the Year honors for his role in developing quarterback Drake Maye and revitalizing the Patriots’ offense.
McDaniels’ experience, creativity, and leadership helped turn the unit into one of the NFL’s most efficient and dynamic attacks, playing a key role in the team’s Super Bowl run.
Conclusion: A Night That Defined the 2025 NFL Season
NFL Honors 2025 served as a powerful reminder that greatness in the NFL is built on talent, discipline, resilience, and leadership. As the league turned its attention toward Super Bowl LX, the ceremony celebrated the individuals whose performances and perseverance shaped an unforgettable season and left a lasting mark on the game.
FAQs
Q: What is NFL Honors 2025?
NFL Honors 2025 is the annual awards ceremony that celebrates the best performances of the NFL regular season, recognizing league standouts like MVPs, rookies, comeback players and coach of the year — held just before the Super Bowl.
Q: Who won the MVP at NFL Honors 2025?
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford won the Most Valuable Player award for the 2025 season, marking the first MVP honor of his career.
Q: What made Stafford’s MVP season special?
Stafford led the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns, making him one of the most efficient passers in the league at age 37.
Q: When and where did NFL Honors 2025 take place?
The 15th annual NFL Honors ceremony took place on February 5, 2026, at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, just days before Super Bowl LX.
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