NFL Honors 2025: A Night of Surprises and Celebrations
As the anticipation builds for the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles showdown at Caesars Superdome New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX, the NFL community gathered for a night of glitz and glamour at the Saenger Theatre for the annual NFL Honors. This event, held on Thursday, was a celebration of the league’s top performers and a chance to recognize the outstanding achievements of the season.
The evening was filled with excitement and a few surprises, none bigger than the announcement of the NFL Most Valuable Player. Josh Allen, the dynamic quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, edged out Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens to claim the prestigious MVP award. Allen’s performance this season was nothing short of remarkable, as he led the Bills to 13 victories and a spot in the AFC Championship Game. His ability to minimize turnovers, with a career-low six interceptions and two fumbles, was a key factor in his success. Allen’s dual-threat capability was on full display as he rushed for 12 touchdowns and threw for 28, leading an offense that tied an NFL record with 13 players catching touchdown passes.
In the words of Bills coach Sean McDermott, “Josh Allen’s leadership, his consistent leadership, was the biggest reason why we did what we did this season.” It’s clear that Allen’s influence on the field and in the locker room was instrumental in the Bills’ impressive run.
Another standout from the evening was Saquon Barkley, who took home the Offensive Player of the Year award in his first season with the Philadelphia Eagles. Barkley’s season was historic, as he became the ninth player to reach 2,000 rushing yards, finishing just 100 yards shy of Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record. His explosive playmaking ability was evident with seven 60-plus-yard touchdown runs, the most in a single season. The Eagles’ decision to focus on a ground-dependent, Barkley-centric offense paid off, leading to a 14-3 record.
On the defensive side, Pat Surtain II of the Denver Broncos was named Defensive Player of the Year. Surtain’s ability to shut down top receivers was unmatched, as he surrendered the fewest receiving yards of anyone at his position this season. His performance was a testament to his skill and the strategic advantage he provided to the Broncos’ defense.
The Coach of the Year award went to Kevin O’Connell of the Minnesota Vikings. O’Connell’s leadership and vision were crucial in guiding the Vikings to exceed expectations, winning 13 games and showcasing his ability to win close contests. His .743 win percentage in one-score games is a testament to his strategic acumen and ability to inspire his team.
In the rookie categories, Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders was named Offensive Rookie of the Year. Daniels set records with his dual-threat capabilities, leading his team to a conference championship game and showcasing his potential as a future star in the league.
On the defensive side, Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams was honored as the Defensive Rookie of the Year. Verse’s impact on the field was significant, as he led all rookies in quarterback pressures and was a key player for the Rams’ defense.
The Comeback Player of the Year award was given to Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Burrow’s return from a season-ending injury was nothing short of inspirational, as he led the league in passing yards and touchdowns, proving his resilience and determination.
Finally, the Assistant Coach of the Year award went to Ben Johnson, formerly of the Detroit Lions and now head coach of the Chicago Bears. Johnson’s offensive brilliance and creative playcalling were instrumental in the Lions’ record-setting season.
- MVP: Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills
- Offensive Player of the Year: Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
- Defensive Player of the Year: Pat Surtain II, CB, Denver Broncos
- Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota Vikings
- Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
- Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse, Edge, Los Angeles Rams
- Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow, QB, Cincinnati Bengals
- Assistant Coach of the Year: Ben Johnson, Detroit Lions
The NFL Honors 2025 was a night to remember, celebrating the incredible talent and achievements of the league’s best. As we look forward to the Super Bowl, these awards remind us of the dedication and excellence that define the NFL.
Originally Written by: NFL Nation
