NFL Honors 2026: Biggest Winners and Memorable Moments from the 15th Annual Awards 
The 2026 NFL Honors delivered a night of surprises, milestones, and star-making achievements. It was held on February 5, 2026, at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. The event spotlighted the best players, coaches, and community leaders in professional football just days before Super Bowl LX.
Matthew Stafford: MVP and a Storybook Season
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford captured the highest individual honor in football. He won the AP NFL Most Valuable Player Award. This is his first MVP after a career-best season. Stafford narrowly edged out New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye in one of the closest MVP races in recent memory. He is leading the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns,
In a heartfelt moment on stage, Stafford also announced he plans to return for the 2026 season.
Offensive and Defensive Standouts
The league’s top offensive player award went to Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He led the NFL in receiving yards and became only the second Seahawk in history to claim the **Offensive Player of the Year **honor.
On the defensive side, Cleveland Browns end Myles Garrett earned Defensive Player of the Year. This capped a historic season with a record-setting 23 sacks, the most by any player in a single season.
Rookies and Comebacks
The 2026 ceremony also honored impressive newcomers. Tetairoa McMillan, wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, won Offensive Rookie of the Year after a breakout first season. Carson Schwesinger, linebacker for the Cleveland Browns, earned Defensive Rookie of the Year. He was recognized for his impact on a formidable defensive unit.
In addition, Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers was named Comeback Player of the Year, celebrating his return to elite form following injury setbacks.
Coach, Community, and Line Play Honors
Mike Vrabel, head coach of the New England Patriots, was named Coach of the Year after leading his team to one of the league’s most successful seasons.
Off the field, Bobby Wagner of the Washington Commanders received the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award for his extensive community service and leadership.
The night also featured the introduction of the Protector of the Year award — recognizing excellence in offensive line play — which was won by Joe Thuney of the Chicago Bears.
The Night’s Bigger Picture
Hosted by actor Jon Hamm and broadcast on NBC, Peacock, and NFL Network, the NFL Honors event blended star power, league history, and Super Bowl weekend energy into one of the NFL’s marquee off-field moments.
As the league shifts its focus to Super Bowl LX, the award winners have not only capped remarkable seasons individually but also set the stage for legacies that will be remembered beyond this year’s big game.
