The NFL’s elite gathered at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco on Thursday night for the 15th annual NFL Honors, a star-studded celebration of the most outstanding performers from the 2025 regular season. Hosted by actor Jon Hamm, the ceremony provided a definitive look at the league's best before the focus shifts to Super Bowl LX this weekend. From record-breaking defensive campaigns to a veteran quarterback reclaiming his throne, the 2026 NFL Honors winners reflected a season of incredible statistical achievements and dramatic turnarounds.
Matthew Stafford Captures First Career MVP
The night’s most prestigious award went to Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, who was named the 2025 AP NFL Most Valuable Player. At 38 years old and in his 17th professional season, Stafford delivered one of the most prolific campaigns of his Hall of Fame-caliber career. He led the league with 4,707 passing yards and a franchise-record 46 touchdowns, helping the Rams maintain their status as a powerhouse in the NFC.
Stafford's victory marks the 13th consecutive year a quarterback has taken home the MVP trophy. His efficiency was nearly unmatched this season, posting a 109.2 passer rating and leading the league in passing first downs. After years of being considered one of the most talented arms in the league, Stafford has finally added the highest individual honor to his Super Bowl ring and Pro Bowl selections.
Myles Garrett Makes History with Defensive Player of the Year
While Stafford dominated the offensive side of the ball, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns was the undisputed king of the defense. Garrett was named the AP Defensive Player of the Year after a historic season in which he set a new NFL single-season record with 23.0 sacks. The Browns' defensive end surpassed the previous mark of 22.5, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest pass rushers to ever play the game.
Garrett’s impact went beyond just the sack total; he was the focal point of a Cleveland defense that remained competitive despite various offensive struggles. This marks Garrett’s second DPOY award, having previously won in 2023. His unanimous selection highlights a season where he recorded multiple multi-sack games, including a dominant 5.0-sack performance that left offensive coordinators across the league searching for answers.
Rookies of the Year: McMillan and Schwesinger Shine
The 2026 NFL Honors also highlighted the next generation of stars. Tetairoa McMillan, the standout wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, took home the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award. McMillan was a revelation for the Panthers, stepping in as a true WR1 and helping lead the team to a surprising playoff berth. His ability to win contested catches and stretch the field made him the favorite for the award throughout the second half of the season.
On the defensive side, the Cleveland Browns doubled up on major hardware as linebacker Carson Schwesinger was named AP Defensive Rookie of the Year. Schwesinger’s high-motor play and tackling proficiency made him a perfect complement to Garrett’s pass rush, giving the Browns a formidable defensive core for years to come.
Complete List of 2026 NFL Honors Winners
Beyond the headliners, several other players and coaches were recognized for their contributions to the 2025 season. Here is the complete list of the night's major winners:
- AP Most Valuable Player: Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams)
- AP Defensive Player of the Year: Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns)
- AP Offensive Player of the Year: Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks)
- AP Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tetairoa McMillan (Carolina Panthers)
- AP Defensive Rookie of the Year: Carson Schwesinger (Cleveland Browns)
- AP Comeback Player of the Year: Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers)
- AP Coach of the Year: Mike Vrabel (New England Patriots)
- AP Assistant Coach of the Year: Josh McDaniels (New England Patriots)
- Protector of the Year (Offensive Lineman): Joe Thuney (Chicago Bears)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year: To be announced
- FedEx Air Player of the Year: Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams)
- FedEx Ground Player of the Year: James Cook (Buffalo Bills)
- Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year (Fan Vote): Tyler Shough (New Orleans Saints)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Christian McCaffrey Honored
The Offensive Player of the Year award went to Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. In a year where wide receiver production reached new heights, Smith-Njigba led the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards, serving as the primary engine for a Seattle offense that secured the NFC's top seed.
Meanwhile, Christian McCaffrey added another trophy to his mantle by winning AP Comeback Player of the Year. After battling through injuries in previous seasons, McCaffrey returned to his dominant form in 2025, recording over 2,000 scrimmage yards and 17 total touchdowns for the San Francisco 49ers. His ability to remain the league's most versatile weapon after such a grueling road back was one of the season's most inspiring storylines.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026
The evening concluded with the announcement of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This year’s inductees represent some of the most iconic figures of the 21st century, including first-ballot locks and long-awaited veterans. The class includes Larry Fitzgerald, Eli Manning, Frank Gore, and Luke Kuechly, among others. Their induction this summer in Canton will serve as the final chapter for several of the most storied careers in NFL history.
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