The 2026 NFL Honors ceremony, which took place on February 5 at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, highlighted the standout players of the 2025 season. Among the notable winners, Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP). His impressive performance included leading the league with 4,707 passing yards and an impressive 46 touchdown passes, guiding his team through a challenging playoff race.
Defensive standout Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns took home the Defensive Player of the Year award for a record-setting 23 sacks, surpassing the previous record held by legends Michael Strahan and TJ Watt. Jaxson Smith-Njigba, a wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, was recognized as the Offensive Player of the Year after leading the league in receiving yards.
The ceremony also honored Bobby Wagner, linebacker for the Washington Commanders, who received the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award, acknowledging his outstanding contributions both on and off the field. This marked Wagner”s first win of this significant accolade, which celebrates players who excel in their community work. His philanthropic efforts include the Phenia Mae Fund, named in honor of his late mother, to support initiatives in health, social justice, and youth entrepreneurship.
Other award winners included Tetairoa McMillan from the Carolina Panthers, who was named Offensive Rookie of the Year, and Carson Schwesinger of the Cleveland Browns, who took home the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Mike Vrabel, head coach of the New England Patriots, was recognized as Coach of the Year for leading his team to the Super Bowl, while Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers was honored as the Comeback Player of the Year. The inaugural Protector of the Year award went to Joe Thuney of the Chicago Bears, who played a crucial role in supporting a top-performing offensive line.
This year”s honors showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of players across the league, celebrating their achievements and contributions to the game of football.
