The 2026 NFL Honors ceremony celebrated the top players, coaches, and contributors from the 2025 NFL season, recognizing excellence across the league just days before Super Bowl LX. The annual awards show honors standout performances in categories such as MVP, Coach of the Year, Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, and more.
Below is the complete list of 2026 NFL Honors winners, along with context for each major award.
Who Won MVP at the 2026 NFL Honors?
NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP)
Matthew Stafford – QB, Los Angeles Rams
Matthew Stafford captured the league’s highest individual honor after leading the Rams through an elite offensive season. His command of the passing game, efficiency in key moments, and leadership were decisive factors in MVP voting.
2026 Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year
Offensive Player of the Year
Jaxon Smith-Njigba – WR, Seattle Seahawks
Smith-Njigba emerged as one of the NFL’s most dynamic offensive weapons, posting elite receiving numbers and becoming a centerpiece of Seattle’s offense.
Defensive Player of the Year
Myles Garrett – DE, Cleveland Browns
Myles Garrett once again proved why he is considered one of the most disruptive defenders in football, dominating opposing offensive lines and consistently impacting games.
2026 NFL Rookie of the Year Winners
Offensive Rookie of the Year
Tetairoa McMillan – WR, Carolina Panthers
McMillan made an immediate impact in his rookie campaign, showcasing elite athleticism and route-running ability while quickly becoming a top target.
Defensive Rookie of the Year
Carson Schwesinger – LB, Cleveland Browns
Schwesinger anchored Cleveland’s defense with instinctive play and consistent production, earning league-wide recognition in his first season.
Coach, Comeback, and Protector of the Year
Coach of the Year
Mike Vrabel – Head Coach, New England Patriots
Mike Vrabel was honored for leading the Patriots through a highly successful season, marked by discipline, adaptability, and strong defensive identity.
Comeback Player of the Year
Christian McCaffrey – RB, San Francisco 49ers
After overcoming adversity, McCaffrey returned to elite form, reestablishing himself as one of the league’s most versatile offensive players.
Protector of the Year
Joe Thuney – OG, Chicago Bears
The Protector of the Year award recognizes the NFL’s top offensive lineman, and Thuney earned the honor with consistent excellence in pass protection and run blocking.
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2026)
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award
Bobby Wagner – LB, Washington Commanders
One of the NFL’s most prestigious honors, the Walter Payton Man of the Year award recognizes leadership, philanthropy, and community impact. Wagner was honored for his extensive charitable work and influence beyond the field.
When Are the NFL Honors Announced?
The NFL Honors ceremony is held annually during Super Bowl week and recognizes achievements from the preceding regular season. The 2026 ceremony honored performances from the 2025 NFL season.
Final Thoughts on the 2026 NFL Honors
The 2026 NFL Honors highlighted a season defined by elite quarterback play, dominant defense, impactful rookies, and strong leadership across the league. From Matthew Stafford’s MVP campaign to Bobby Wagner’s off-field excellence, the awards reflected both performance and character at the highest level of professional football.