The 2025 NFL Honors, held at the historic Saenger Theatre in New Orleans on February 6, was a night of celebration, recognizing the best players, coaches, and contributors of the 2024 NFL season. Hosted by none other than the legendary Snoop Dogg, the event was packed with thrilling moments, heartfelt speeches, and historic achievements.
Let’s take a closer look at the winners of the league’s most prestigious awards and their remarkable journeys to glory.
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen claimed the MVP award after an outstanding season, showcasing his elite dual-threat ability. Leading the Bills to a 13-4 record, Allen amassed:
- 3,731 passing yards
- 28 passing touchdowns
- 531 rushing yards
- 12 rushing touchdowns
His ability to dominate both through the air and on the ground made him an undeniable choice for MVP. In his emotional acceptance speech, Allen credited his teammates, coaches, and his fiancée, Hailee Steinfeld, calling her his “biggest supporter.”
Offensive Player of the Year: Saquon Barkley (Philadelphia Eagles)
Saquon Barkley proved that his move to Philadelphia was a game changer. In his first season with the Eagles, Barkley led the league in rushing yards with 2,005 and came close to breaking Terrell Davis’s legendary record, totaling 2,447 yards (regular season + playoffs).
- 14 rushing touchdowns
- 5.4 yards per carry
- 43 receptions for 367 yards
His explosive plays and consistency propelled the Eagles to a 14-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance.
Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Stewart II (Denver Broncos)
Cornerback Patrick Surtain II was a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks all season. At just 24 years old, he became one of the most dominant defenders in the league.
- 4 interceptions (1 returned for a 100-yard touchdown)
- 61.1 passer rating allowed when targeted
- 21 pass breakups
His lockdown coverage helped the Broncos remain competitive despite challenges on offense.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders)
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels took the NFL by storm, winning 49 out of 50 first-place votes. His electric play helped Washington secure a 12-5 record and reach the NFC Championship Game.
- 3,568 passing yards
- 25 passing touchdowns
- 891 rushing yards
- 6 rushing touchdowns
His poise and dual-threat ability make him a future superstar in the league.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse (Los Angeles Rams)
The Rams’ linebacker Jared Verse dominated in his rookie campaign, disrupting offenses all season long.
- 4.5 sacks (led all rookies)
- 18 quarterback hits
- 77 total pressures
- 11 tackles for loss
His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays was instrumental in the Rams’ defensive success.
Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals)
After suffering a mid-season injury in 2023, Joe Burrow returned with vengeance, proving why he is one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
- 4,918 passing yards
- 43 touchdowns
- 68.2% completion rate
His leadership and perseverance helped the Bengals secure another playoff run.
Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell (Minnesota Vikings)
Kevin O’Connell led the Vikings to a 14-3 record, showing remarkable adaptability and leadership. Despite losing key players to injuries, he kept the team focused and competitive, earning well-deserved recognition as Coach of the Year.
Assistant Coach of the Year: Ben Johnson (Detroit Lions)
As the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, Ben Johnson orchestrated one of the most potent offenses in the NFL. His play-calling helped multiple players reach career-best performances and turned the Lions into a serious contender.
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year: Arik Armstead (San Francisco 49ers)
San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Arik Armstead won the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award for his incredible community work and philanthropy. His efforts to improve education and provide resources to underserved communities set an example for all.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025
The Hall of Fame Class of 2025 featured four legends of the game:
- Antonio Gates (Tight End)
- Jared Allen (Defensive End)
- Eric Allen (Cornerback)
- Sterling Sharpe (Wide Receiver)
Notably, Sterling Sharpe joins his brother, Shannon Sharpe, making them the first siblings to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
A Night to Remember
The 2025 NFL Honors was a night filled with excitement, emotion, and well-deserved recognition. From record-breaking performances to heartwarming speeches, the event celebrated the best of the NFL. With the Super Bowl just around the corner, fans now look forward to seeing if these award winners can cement their legacies with championship glory.
