Santa Clara, California, celebrated the conclusion of the NFL season as the 2026 NFL Honors ceremony showcased achievements from an exhilarating year of football. The event, held Thursday, recognized outstanding players and coaches, culminating in the prestigious Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player award.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford claimed the MVP title in a fiercely contested race, marking the tightest competition for this award since the co-winners in 2003. Stafford’s exceptional performance throughout the season solidified his status among the league’s elite.

In the running for Coach of the Year, New England’s Mike Vrabel emerged victorious over Jacksonville’s Liam Coen, highlighting his skill in leading the Patriots to success this past season. Meanwhile, Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers made headlines by becoming the first running back in 24 years to receive the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year honor, showcasing his resilience following previous injuries.

The ceremony also brought joyful announcements regarding the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s newest inductees. Among the legends set to join the ranks are Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Luke Kuechly, Adam Vinatieri, and Roger Craig, recognizing their significant contributions to the sport.

These accolades arrived just before the highly anticipated Super Bowl 60, where the New England Patriots will face off against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. This matchup promises to be a thrilling showdown as fans gear up for the final game of the season.

The awards are determined by a panel of 50 media members who cover the NFL extensively, with voting concluding before the playoffs. Notable Hall of Famers such as Tony Dungy and Kurt Warner participated as voters, contributing to the credibility of the results. Balloting was conducted by the accounting firm of Lutz and Carr.

This year’s MVP finalists included some of the league’s brightest stars: Christian McCaffrey, Josh Allen, Trevor Lawrence, Drake Maye, and Matthew Stafford. Each nominee showcased remarkable skill and determination throughout the season, drawing significant attention from fans and analysts alike.

As football enthusiasts reflect on the season, the NFL Honors serves as a reminder of both individual accomplishments and collective team efforts that contributed to a memorable year in professional football.