NFL Awards 2025: Celebrating Excellence in Football-The NFL Awards 2025, officially known as the 14th Annual NFL Honors, took place on February 6, 2025, at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans, just days before Super Bowl LIX. Hosted by the iconic rapper and NFL enthusiast Snoop Dogg, this star-studded event celebrated the league’s top performers, coaches, and rookies from the 2024 regular season. From the highly anticipated Most Valuable Player (MVP) announcement to the induction of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025, the night was filled with drama, surprises, and heartfelt moments. As of March 11, 2025, the dust has settled, and fans are still buzzing about the winners, snubs, and what these awards mean for the future of the NFL. In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive into every aspect of the NFL Awards 2025, answering the questions fans have been asking on YouTube and Google, and providing an in-depth look at the night that honored football’s best.
The Stage is Set: NFL Honors 2025 Overview
The NFL Honors has become a cornerstone event in the league’s calendar, serving as a glamorous capstone to the regular season. Held on the Thursday before the Super Bowl, this year’s ceremony aired live on FOX and NFL Network at 9 p.m. ET, with streaming available on NFL+. The choice of New Orleans—host city of Super Bowl LIX—added extra flair, blending the city’s vibrant culture with the NFL’s glitz and glamour. Snoop Dogg, a lifelong football fan known for his youth football league and colorful commentary, brought his signature charisma to the stage, making the night as entertaining as it was prestigious.
The event recognized eight major Associated Press (AP) awards, including MVP, Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, Coach of the Year, and more. Beyond the AP honors, the ceremony also featured the announcement of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025, and other special recognitions. With a mix of current stars, legends, and celebrity presenters, the NFL Honors 2025 was a night to remember.
MVP Showdown: Josh Allen Edges Out Lamar Jackson
The Winner: Josh Allen
The Most Valuable Player award was the night’s marquee moment, and it didn’t disappoint. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen claimed his first MVP trophy, narrowly defeating Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in one of the closest races in recent memory. Allen tallied 383 voting points (27 first-place votes), edging out Jackson’s 362 points (23 first-place votes). The victory marked a significant milestone for Allen, who had finished second to Aaron Rodgers in 2020 and placed in the top five in 2022 and 2023.
Allen’s 2024 season was a masterclass in efficiency and leadership. He guided the Bills to a 13-4 record and their fifth consecutive AFC East title, throwing for 28 touchdowns and rushing for 12 more, with a career-low six interceptions. His 77.3 QBR led the league, and his 101.4 passer rating was the second-highest of his career. “Josh Allen’s consistent leadership was the biggest reason why we did what we did this season,” said Bills head coach Sean McDermott, reflecting on his quarterback’s impact.
The Controversy: Lamar Jackson’s Case
Jackson, the reigning MVP from 2023, made a compelling case for a third win, a feat only achieved by Peyton Manning (5), Aaron Rodgers (4), Tom Brady (3), and Brett Favre (3). He threw for 41 touchdowns against just four interceptions, led the NFL with a 6.6 yards-per-carry average, and steered the Ravens to an AFC North title. His first-team All-Pro nod underscored his dominance, making Allen’s MVP win a point of contention. The split decision—Allen as MVP, Jackson as first-team All-Pro—marked the first time since 1987 (John Elway over Jim McMahon) that the MVP went to a second-team All-Pro quarterback.
Fans on YouTube and Google have been asking, “Why didn’t Lamar win MVP again?” The answer lies in the voting: a panel of 50 media members ranked their top five candidates before the playoffs, and Allen’s lower turnover rate and head-to-head playoff win over Jackson (in the divisional round) likely tipped the scales. Still, the debate rages on, with some calling it a “snub” for Jackson.
Other Finalists
Saquon Barkley (Eagles): 120 points – The only non-quarterback finalist, Barkley’s historic 2,005 rushing yards earned him third place.
Joe Burrow (Bengals): 82 points – A strong comeback season landed him fourth.
Jared Goff (Lions): 47 points – His role in Detroit’s 15-2 season rounded out the top five.
Offensive Player of the Year: Saquon Barkley’s Historic Season
The Winner: Saquon Barkley
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley couldn’t attend the ceremony—he was busy preparing for Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs—but his Offensive Player of the Year win was a highlight of the night. Barkley became the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season, finishing with 2,005. His playoff performance (442 yards, five touchdowns) pushed him within 30 yards of Terrell Davis’ all-time postseason-inclusive record.
Barkley’s first season with the Eagles after leaving the New York Giants was transformative. He earned two All-Pro nods and two Pro Bowl selections in his career, but 2024 cemented his legacy as one of the league’s premier offensive weapons. “This is a surreal feeling,” Barkley said via video, accepting the award remotely.
The Voting Breakdown
Saquon Barkley: Dominant winner, though exact vote totals weren’t specified beyond beating out Burrow, Jackson, Ja’Marr Chase, and Derrick Henry.
Joe Burrow: Second, buoyed by his league-leading 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns.
Lamar Jackson: Third, reflecting his dual-threat brilliance.
Fans have asked, “Why didn’t Barkley win MVP if he won OPOY?” Historically, OPOY often goes to a non-quarterback when a QB takes MVP, as voters tend to reserve the top honor for signal-callers. Barkley’s third-place MVP finish shows he was in the conversation, but Allen and Jackson’s quarterback narratives prevailed.
Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Surtain II Shines
The Winner: Patrick Surtain II
Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II claimed his first Defensive Player of the Year award, becoming the first corner to win since Stephon Gilmore in 2019. Surtain’s season was a defensive clinic: he allowed just 306 receiving yards (fewest among corners with 375+ coverage snaps), picked off four passes, and held quarterbacks to a 61.1 passer rating when targeted. His 26 first-place votes (330 points) outpaced Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson (11 votes, 205 points) and Cleveland’s Myles Garrett (5 votes, 162 points).
“This is something I worked for this offseason and manifested,” Surtain said. “It’s all technique and film study—being the best version of myself.” His matchups against elite receivers like Ja’Marr Chase (3 catches, 27 yards) and DK Metcalf (3 catches, 29 yards) showcased his lockdown ability.
The Competition
Trey Hendrickson: The Bengals’ pass rusher led the NFL with 17.5 sacks.
Myles Garrett: The reigning DPOY finished third with 14 sacks.
T.J. Watt (Steelers): Fourth with 114 points, despite another stellar year.
YouTube comments like “Why don’t pass rushers win DPOY more?” reflect a common sentiment. While edge rushers dominate the award (10 of the last 15 winners), Surtain’s exceptional coverage skills broke the trend in 2025.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels’ Historic Debut
The Winner: Jayden Daniels
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels capped an electrifying rookie season with the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. He threw for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns, and a 100.1 passer rating, while rushing for 891 yards and six scores. Daniels led the Commanders to an eight-win improvement and an NFC Championship Game appearance, falling just short of the Super Bowl. His 49 first-place votes (out of 50) underscored his dominance, with Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers snagging the lone dissent.
Daniels’ 69% completion rate and 891 rushing yards set records among rookie quarterbacks, earning him comparisons to Robert Griffin III’s 2012 campaign. “To be nominated with my draft class and the offensive firepower we had means a lot,” Daniels said.
Other Contenders
Brock Bowers: Second with a strong debut for the Raiders.
Bo Nix (Broncos), Malik Nabers (Giants), Brian Thomas Jr. (Jaguars): All made cases but couldn’t match Daniels’ impact.
Fans have Googled, “Was Daniels a unanimous pick?” No, but his near-sweep reflects his standout year.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse Dominates
The Winner: Jared Verse
Los Angeles Rams pass rusher Jared Verse took home Defensive Rookie of the Year honors with 37 first-place votes (427 points). His 4.5 sacks, 77 quarterback pressures, and 18 hits overwhelmed offensive lines, making him the first Rams player to win since Aaron Donald in 2014. Verse’s physicality and relentless motor drew praise, with voters favoring his production over Philadelphia’s Quinyon Mitchell (9 votes, 239 points).
The Field
Quinyon Mitchell: Second with a stellar cornerback season for the Eagles.
Braden Fiske (Rams), Cooper DeJean (Eagles), Chop Robinson (Dolphins): Notable rookies who fell short.
Questions like “Why didn’t Mitchell win?” pop up online. Verse’s edge-rushing stats likely swayed voters, as the award often favors sack artists over coverage players.
Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow’s Redemption
The Winner: Joe Burrow
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow won his second Comeback Player of the Year award (first in 2021), joining Chad Pennington as the only two-time recipients. After missing seven games in 2023 due to a wrist injury, Burrow returned to lead the NFL with 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns in 2024. His 31 first-place votes (370 points) beat out Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins (195 points) and Vikings QB Sam Darnold (102 points).
“I don’t think anybody was playing any better than I was this year,” Burrow said, acknowledging his MVP snub but celebrating the comeback nod. His 9-8 Bengals missed the playoffs, but his individual brilliance was undeniable.
Other Nominees
J.K. Dobbins: Second after a strong bounce-back with the Chargers.
Sam Darnold: Third, revitalized under Kevin O’Connell in Minnesota.
Fans ask, “Can you win Comeback twice?” Yes, and Burrow’s resilience proves it.
Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell’s Turnaround
The Winner: Kevin O’Connell
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell earned Coach of the Year honors after transforming the team into a 13-4 playoff contender. Despite losing Kirk Cousins to free agency and rookie J.J. McCarthy to injury, O’Connell leaned on Sam Darnold to deliver a competitive season in the NFC North. His leadership outshone finalists like Detroit’s Dan Campbell and Denver’s Sean Payton.
The Contenders
Dan Campbell: Led the Lions to a 15-2 record and NFC’s top seed.
Sean Payton: Guided the Broncos to the playoffs with rookie Bo Nix.
Dan Quinn (Commanders), Andy Reid (Chiefs): Also in the mix.
“Why didn’t Campbell win?” is a common YouTube query. O’Connell’s underdog narrative likely resonated more with voters.
Assistant Coach of the Year: Ben Johnson’s Offensive Genius
The Winner: Ben Johnson
Former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, now head coach of the Chicago Bears, won Assistant Coach of the Year for his work in 2024. Johnson’s creative playcalling fueled Detroit’s record-setting 15-win season, earning him widespread respect before his move to Chicago.
Other Finalists
Todd Bowles (Buccaneers DC), Mike Vrabel (Browns AC), and others vied for the honor.
Walter Payton Man of the Year: Arik Armstead’s Impact
Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Arik Armstead won the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award for his off-field contributions. Through his Armstead Academic Project, founded in 2019, he’s focused on improving literacy rates, earning admiration league-wide. Each of the 32 nominees received recognition, but Armstead’s work stood out.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025
The night also unveiled the Hall of Fame Class of 2025:
Antonio Gates (Chargers TE): 11,841 yards, 116 touchdowns.
Sterling Sharpe (Packers WR): Joins brother Shannon as the first sibling duo in the Hall.
Jared Allen (DE, Chiefs/Vikings): 136 sacks.
Eric Allen (CB, Eagles/Saints/Raiders): 54 interceptions.
Eli Manning’s first-ballot snub sparked debate, with fans asking, “Why not Eli?” His exclusion highlights the competitive nature of the selection process.
Special Awards and Moments
Salute to Service: George Kittle (49ers TE) for military support.
Sack Leader: Trey Hendrickson (17.5 sacks).
Rushing Leader: Saquon Barkley (2,005 yards).
Moment of the Year: Jayden Daniels’ Hail Mary vs. the Bears.
“Who won MVP 2025?” Josh Allen.
“Why didn’t Lamar Jackson win?” Allen’s efficiency and playoff win swayed voters.
“Where can I watch NFL Honors 2025?” Replays on NFL Network or NFL+.
“Who’s in the Hall of Fame 2025?” Gates, Sharpe, Allen, Allen.
Looking Ahead: What the Awards Mean
The 2025 NFL Honors reflected a league in transition—new stars like Daniels and Verse emerged, while veterans like Allen and Burrow solidified their legacies. As the NFL heads into the offseason, these awards set the stage for free agency, the draft, and predictions for 2025. Will Allen repeat? Can Daniel’s build on his rookie success? The storylines are endless.
A Night of Triumph
The NFL Awards 2025 delivered on its promise to celebrate excellence, blending stats-driven debates with heartfelt tributes. From Allen’s MVP triumph to Armstead’s community impact, the night showcased the best of football—on and off the field. As fans dissect the results and look toward next season, one thing is clear: the NFL’s future is as bright as its past.
Faqs
The NFL Awards ceremony, held annually to honor the league’s standout performers, took place on February 6, 2025, at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans, Louisiana. Hosted by rapper Snoop Dogg, the event celebrated the exceptional achievements of players, coaches, and contributors during the 2024 NFL season. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the 2025 NFL Awards.
Who won the NFL MVP Award in 2025?
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was named the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2024 season. He received 27 out of 50 first-place votes, making him the third quarterback to win the MVP without being named First Team All-Pro.
What other major awards were presented at the 2025 NFL Honors?
The ceremony recognized several key awards:
Offensive Player of the Year: Saquon Barkley, Running Back, Philadelphia Eagles
Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Surtain II, Cornerback, Denver Broncos
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels, Quarterback, Washington Commanders
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse, Outside Linebacker, Los Angeles Rams
Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow, Quarterback, Cincinnati Bengals
Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell, Head Coach, Minnesota Vikings
Assistant Coach of the Year: Ben Johnson, Offensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions
Executive of the Year: Brad Holmes, General Manager, Detroit Lions
Super Bowl Most Valuable Player: Jalen Hurts, Quarterback, Philadelphia Eagles
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year: Arik Armstead, Defensive End, Jacksonville Jaguars
Where can I find the full list of winners from the 2025 NFL Honors?
A comprehensive list of all award winners and finalists is available on the official NFL website and reputable sports news outlets.
Who were the inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2025?
The 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class includes:
Eric Allen: Cornerback
Jared Allen: Defensive End
Antonio Gates: Tight End
Sterling Sharpe: Wide Receiver
How are the NFL MVP and other awards determined?
Awards like the NFL MVP are voted on by a panel of 50 sportswriters, broadcasters, and former players. The voting process considers regular-season performance, team success, and individual contributions.
When and where did the 2025 NFL Honors ceremony take place?
The 14th NFL Honors ceremony was held on February 6, 2025, at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans, Louisiana. It was broadcast on Fox and NFL Network. citeturn0search12
Who hosted the 2025 NFL Honors ceremony?
The ceremony was hosted by rapper Snoop Dogg. citeturn0search12
How does the NFL Honors ceremony differ from the NFL Draft and Super Bowl?
The NFL Honors is an annual awards presentation celebrating the league’s achievements, while the NFL Draft is an event where teams select eligible college players to join the league. The Super Bowl is the championship game concluding the NFL season.
Are the NFL Honors awards based solely on regular-season performance?
Yes, most awards, including the NFL MVP, are based on regular-season performance. However, postseason achievements can influence certain awards, such as the Super Bowl MVP.
How can I watch replays of the 2025 NFL Honors ceremony?
Replays and highlights are typically available on the NFL’s official website, Fox Sports, and NFL Network’s platforms.
What criteria are used to select Hall of Fame inductees?
Hall of Fame inductees are chosen based on their outstanding contributions to the NFL, including individual statistics, team success, and overall impact on the game.
How can fans participate in the NFL Honors voting process?
While most awards are decided by media members and former players, fans can influence certain categories, such as the “Moment of the Year” and “Fan of the Year,” through online voting.
Are there any fan events associated with the NFL Honors?
Yes, events like the NFL Honors Red Carpet Show allow fans to engage with players and celebrities attending the ceremony.
How can I get involved in the NFL Honors as a volunteer or sponsor?
Information on volunteering or sponsoring can be found by contacting the NFL’s events department through their official website.
Will there be a 2026 NFL Honors ceremony?
Yes, the NFL Honors is an annual event, and plans for the 2026 ceremony are already underway.
How does winning an NFL award impact a player’s career?
Receiving an NFL award can enhance a player’s reputation, potentially lead to endorsement opportunities, and solidify their legacy in the sport.
Can players win multiple awards in a single year?
Yes, players can win multiple awards. For example, Josh Allen won both the NFL MVP and the Art Rooney Award in 2025.
How are the nominees for each award selected?
Nominees are selected based on regular-season
To read more click here
