NFL Honors 2026: Stafford Edges Out Maye in Historic MVP Race

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Before the Seahawks and Patriots clash in Super Bowl LX this Sunday, the league gathered in San Francisco on Thursday, February 5, for the 15th Annual NFL Honors. Hosted by Jon Hamm, the night was defined by a razor-thin MVP race and a historic “unanimous” defensive coronation.

The MVP: Matthew Stafford’s First Coronation

In the closest MVP voting since the 2003 Co-MVP split, Matthew Stafford (Rams) narrowly defeated rookie sensation Drake Maye (Patriots) by a single first-place vote (24 to 23).

The Stats: Stafford led the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns, leading the Rams to a 12–5 record.
The Milestone: At 38, Stafford becomes the oldest first-time MVP in league history.
The Return: During his acceptance speech, Stafford officially put retirement rumors to rest, confirming he will return for an 18th season in 2026.

Defensive Player of the Year: Unanimous Myles

Cleveland Browns DE Myles Garrett left no room for debate, becoming just the second player in history (joining J.J. Watt) to win the award unanimously. Garrett’s 2025 campaign was legendary, setting a new NFL single-season record with 23 sacks.

Offensive Player of the Year: Jaxon Smith-Njigba

The “Year of the Receiver” was solidified by Seahawks star Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who led the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards. He beat out Christian McCaffrey and Puka Nacua for the honor, becoming the first Seahawk to win the award since Shaun Alexander in 2005.

The Rookies: From Panthers to Browns

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Panthers). The standout receiver was a bright spot for Carolina, racking up 1,300+ yards and 10 touchdowns.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Carson Schwesinger (LB, Browns). A true “walk-on to winner” story, Schwesinger led all rookies with 156 tackles, joining his teammate Myles Garrett on the stage for a dominant Browns defensive sweep.

Coaching & Other Major Awards

Award	Winner	Team	Note
Coach of the Year	Mike Vrabel	Patriots	Led a 10-win improvement in his first year in NE.
Assistant Coach	Josh McDaniels	Patriots	Architect of Drake Maye’s historic rookie year.
Comeback Player	Christian McCaffrey	49ers	Overcame 2024 injuries for 2,000+ scrimmage yards.
Man of the Year	Bobby Wagner	Commanders	Honored for his extensive community & youth work.
Protector of the Year	Joe Thuney	Bears	First-ever winner of the award for offensive linemen.