The 2025 NFL Honors ceremony proudly showcased the brightest stars from the 2024 season on February 6, 2025, at the historic Saenger Theatre in New Orleans. With rapper Snoop Dogg leading the proceedings, the event highlighted not only exceptional player performances but also recognized the latest inductees to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
All eyes were on Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen as he clinched the Most Valuable Player award, marking the culmination of a stellar season. Allen edged out Baltimore Ravens star Lamar Jackson, receiving 27 first-place votes to Jackson's 23. Coach Sean McDermott praised Allen's influence, stating, "Josh Allen's leadership, his consistent leadership, was the biggest reason why we did what we did this season." This win marked Allen's first MVP title, signifying his pivotal role in leading the Bills to impressive victories.
Another significant highlight of the night was Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, who took home the Offensive Player of the Year award, signaling his remarkable first season with the Eagles. Barkley set the stage for greatness with 2,005 rushing yards, just shy of the single-season record. Notably, he enjoyed seven touchdown runs of over 60 yards—an unprecedented feat for the league. McDermott's sentiments echoed through the crowd, as he articulated the impact of Barkley’s performance on his team’s success.
Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II also garnered attention, winning the Defensive Player of the Year award. Surtain's outstanding coverage throughout the season solidified his position as the top defensive player and marked the first time since 2019—when Stephon Gilmore took home the honor—that the award went to a cornerback. Reflecting on his achievement, Surtain remarked, "This is a surreal feeling honestly. This is something I worked for this offseason, I manifested it, and it's a dream come true."
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels emerged as the Offensive Rookie of the Year, having transformed his team dramatically. Following his standout debut season, Daniels recorded significant yardage through both passing (3,568 yards) and rushing (891 yards), making history as one of the best rookie quarterbacks of all time. His spectacular Hail Mary touchdown to defeat the Chicago Bears was recognized as the NFL's Moment of the Year.
A familiar face, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, was honored with the Comeback Player of the Year award. Having previously recovered from a wrist injury, Burrow bounced back to complete the season as one of the league’s most productive quarterbacks, leading the league with 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns. Burrow remarked on his accolade, "It's not exactly an award you want to be up for, but if you're up for it, you might as well try to win it," encapsulating the sentiment of resilience.
The evening also featured recognition of exemplary community service through the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award. Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman Arik Armstead clinched this honor for his extensive charity work, prominently his efforts to bolster literacy rates among youths.
Add to the evening's excitement were the announcements of the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2025, where four legendary players were inducted: Jared Allen, Sterling Sharpe, Eric Allen, and Antonio Gates. Each honoree represented excellence and legacy within the NFL, showcasing their contributions and remarkable careers before moving on to this prestigious recognition.
The event served not only as a celebration of individual talents but also as a reminder of the larger community within the sport. It engaged fans and players alike, culminating moments of elation, reflection, and recognition across the NFL.
With legacies built over years and the contributions to the game and society highlighted, the 2025 NFL Honors ceremony emerged as another successful chapter in the spirit of football. Next on the docket for fans is Super Bowl LIX on February 11, where the Philadelphia Eagles will face the Kansas City Chiefs, marking the climax of the NFL season and the true pursuit of football glory.