In a night packed with applause, tough competition and milestone moments, the NFL rolled out the red carpet Thursday at the Palace of Fine Arts, celebrating the best of the 2025 season just days before Super Bowl LX.
At 37, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford capped a remarkable season by finally earning the league’s top honor, Most Valuable Player. He topped the league in passing yards and touchdowns, a performance that helped propel the Rams deep into the playoffs.
“I’d like to thank my teammates, my coaches and my family…” Stafford said, soaking in the moment with his daughters by his side as he confirmed he’s returning for another season.
On the defensive side, the Cleveland Browns’ Myles Garrett was named Defensive Player of the Year, breaking the NFL’s single-season sack record and cementing his place among the game’s elite.
Rising stars also sparkled. Tetairoa McMillan, the Carolina Panthers wideout, capped a breakout campaign as Offensive Rookie of the Year, while Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger picked up Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
The night’s first-ever Protector of the Year award went to Chicago Bears guard Joe Thuney, recognizing his exceptional work in the trenches. Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers earned Comeback Player of the Year, returning from injury to shine.
Mike Vrabel, coach of the New England Patriots, was voted Coach of the Year, and Bobby Wagner received the Walter Payton Man of the Year award for his community leadership.
As the NFL Honors spotlight dims, anticipation builds for the Seahawks-Patriots clash in Super Bowl LX, where this year’s champions will etch their own history.
