The 2025 NFL Honors took center stage on Friday, February 7th, at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans, bringing together the league’s biggest stars to celebrate the best performances of the 2024 NFL season. The annual awards ceremony, held just days before Super Bowl LIX, recognized outstanding achievements from players, coaches, and teams, as well as honoring the newest inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Hosted by a high-profile celebrity (TBA), the night featured red carpet moments, emotional acceptance speeches, and special tributes, making it an unforgettable evening for football fans across the world.
MVP & Major Award Winners
The biggest honor of the night, NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP), was awarded to Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, marking a significant milestone in his career. Allen, who narrowly edged out Lamar Jackson in one of the closest MVP races since 2016, led Buffalo to its fifth consecutive AFC East title, amassing an impressive 3,731 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 531 rushing yards. His dual-threat ability proved instrumental in the Bills’ success
Other major award winners included:
- Offensive Player of the Year: Saquon Barkley (RB, Philadelphia Eagles) – Barkley had a historic rushing season, finishing with 2,005 rushing yards and 2,447 total yards, helping the Eagles reach Super Bowl LIX
- Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Surtain II (CB, Denver Broncos) – The elite cornerback continued his dominance, earning his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection
- Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell (Minnesota Vikings) – O’Connell led the Vikings to an NFC North division title despite preseason predictions that had them finishing last
- Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels (QB, Washington Commanders) – Daniels showed promise as a future star, leading the Commanders to a strong finish
- Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse (LB, Los Angeles Rams) – Verse played a key role in revitalizing the Rams’ defense
- Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow (QB, Cincinnati Bengals) – After recovering from a season-ending wrist injury in 2023, Burrow returned to lead the Bengals back into playoff contention
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year: Arik Armstead (DE, Jacksonville Jaguars) – Recognized for his off-field contributions and community service
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025
One of the most emotional moments of the night was the induction of the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class, which included Antonio Gates, Jared Allen, Eric Allen, and Sterling Sharpe.
A particularly historic induction was that of Sterling Sharpe, who joined his brother Shannon Sharpe in the Hall of Fame—marking the first time in NFL history that two brothers have been inducted together
Other inductees shared heartfelt speeches, reflecting on their careers and the people who helped them reach football’s greatest honor.
Special Moments and Celebrity Guests
The NFL Honors always bring star power, and this year was no different. Several past and present NFL stars were in attendance, along with celebrities, musicians, and Hollywood personalities. The event also featured musical performances and a tribute to the late football legends lost over the past year.
One of the most talked-about moments was the heartfelt speech by Josh Allen, where he dedicated his MVP award to his teammates and Bills Mafia, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, resilience, and determination.
Looking Ahead to Super Bowl LIX
With the NFL Honors now in the books, all eyes turn to Super Bowl LIX, where the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs will battle for the Lombardi Trophy. Many of the award winners—especially Saquon Barkley and Patrick Mahomes—will play pivotal roles in the biggest game of the year.
As the NFL continues to evolve, the 2025 season promises even more record-breaking performances, new rising stars, and unforgettable moments. Until then, fans can reflect on the excellence showcased at the 2025 NFL Honors as they prepare for another thrilling championship showdown.
