2025 NFL Honors: Celebrating the Season's Top Performers and Breakout Stars
The 2025 NFL Honors ceremony in New Orleans highlighted the league's best, with Josh Allen claiming MVP and Saquon Barkley dominating as Offensive Player of the Year. Discover the full list of winners and their remarkable achievements.
MVP: Josh Allen | QB | Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen defied expectations to win his first MVP award, becoming only the third player since 1957 to claim the honor without being named first-team All-Pro. Allen’s leadership and consistency were pivotal in the Bills’ 13-win season and AFC Championship Game appearance. He set a career-low with just six interceptions and two fumbles while rushing for 12 touchdowns and throwing for 28. His ability to spread the ball was unmatched, as the Bills tied an NFL record with 13 players catching touchdown passes.
Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell | Minnesota Vikings
Kevin O’Connell led the Vikings to a remarkable 14-win season, surpassing preseason projections of just 6.5 wins. His ability to guide the team through a quarterback transition from Kirk Cousins to Sam Darnold showcased his coaching prowess. O’Connell’s Vikings went 9-1 in one-score games, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s top coaches.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse | Edge | Los Angeles Rams
Jared Verse made an immediate impact for the Rams, recording 4.5 sacks, 66 tackles, and 2 forced fumbles in his rookie season. His 76 quarterback pressures were the most among rookies, and he quickly became a cornerstone of the Rams’ defense.
Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow | QB | Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Burrow returned from a wrist injury to have the best season of his career, leading the league in passing yards (4,918) and touchdowns (43). His resilience and performance earned him his second Comeback Player of the Year award.
Offensive Player of the Year: Saquon Barkley | RB | Philadelphia Eagles
Saquon Barkley nearly broke Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record, finishing with 2,005 yards. His dominance on the ground was a key factor in the Eagles’ 14-3 record and their run to the Super Bowl.
Defensive Player of the Year: Pat Surtain II | CB | Denver Broncos
Pat Surtain II was a lockdown corner all season, allowing the fewest receiving yards (306) among cornerbacks with at least 375 coverage snaps. His four interceptions and 132 return yards highlighted his impact on the Broncos’ defense.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels | QB | Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels set multiple records in his rookie season, leading the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game. He rushed for 891 yards and threw for 3,568 yards, showcasing his dual-threat ability.
Assistant Coach of the Year: Ben Johnson | Detroit Lions | Offensive Coordinator
Ben Johnson’s innovative playcalling helped the Lions to a franchise-best 15-win season. His contributions earned him the Assistant Coach of the Year award before his transition to head coach of the Chicago Bears.
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