2026 NFL Honors: Full Winners, Venue, Host & Highlights
This highly anticipated night honored the league’s elite performers, unveiled the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, and built massive excitement heading into Super Bowl LX.
2026 NFL Honors: Key Award Winners
- AP NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP): Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams In one of the closest MVP races in recent memory, Stafford claimed his first career MVP at age 37—the oldest quarterback to win the award for the first time. He led the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns (a career high and franchise record for the Rams), completing passes at 65.0% with only 8 interceptions. He narrowly edged out New England Patriots QB Drake Maye, Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen, Jacksonville Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence, and San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey.
- AP Defensive Player of the Year: Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns Garrett earned this honor unanimously for the second time in his career, solidifying his status as one of the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers.
- AP Offensive Player of the Year: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks The explosive wide receiver had a breakout, record-breaking season that made him the clear choice for top offensive performer.
- AP Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Carolina Panthers McMillan burst onto the scene as a dynamic rookie playmaker for the Panthers.
- AP Defensive Rookie of the Year: Carson Schwesinger, LB, Cleveland Browns Schwesinger delivered an exceptional debut, bolstering the Browns’ defense with standout contributions.
- AP Comeback Player of the Year: Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers McCaffrey staged an impressive return, becoming the first running back in over two decades to win this award.
- AP Coach of the Year: Mike Vrabel, Head Coach, New England Patriots Vrabel claimed his second career Coach of the Year honor, steering the Patriots to a strong campaign.
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year: Arik Armstead, DT, Jacksonville Jaguars Recognized for outstanding on-field play combined with exceptional community service and leadership.
- Other Highlights:
- Protector of the Year (inaugural award): Joe Thuney, OG, Chicago Bears.
- Salute to Service Award: Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers.
- Fan-voted Rookie of the Year: Tyler Shough, QB, New Orleans Saints.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026
The ceremony enshrined an elite group: Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Luke Kuechly, Adam Vinatieri, and Roger Craig. Brees and Fitzgerald were widely celebrated as first-ballot inductees for their legendary contributions to the game.
The 2026 NFL Honors wrapped up an unforgettable 2025 season and set the stage for Super Bowl LX. For full highlights, replays, and analysis, visit NFL.com, Peacock, or NFL Network. Stay connected to www.nriglobe.com for the latest NFL news, breakdowns, and global sports coverage!
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