The 2025 NFL Honors ceremony is set to amaze fans and attendees alike this Thursday night at the Saenger Theater, promises to be a star-studded event filled with NFL legends and renowned celebrities. Slated to begin at 8 p.m. CT, the ceremony will be broadcast live on FOX and NFL Network, also available for streaming on NFL+ for those who can't attend this landmark event.
This year, the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award will be presented by New Orleans Saints favorite Drew Brees, accompanied by the iconic safety Steve Gleason. This duo embodies the Spirit of New Orleans, making the evening all the more special, as they award this significant honor to defensive end Cam Jordan, who is nominated for his extraordinary community service and philanthropic efforts.
It's worth noting the historical significance of this award; Brees is the only New Orleans Saint to have previously won it, leaving fans eager to see if Jordan can join him as the second Saint to earn this honor since its inception. Gleason, renowned for his courageous battle with ALS, will don an authentic Walter Payton Chicago Bears jersey during the presentation, adding to the emotional resonance of the moment.
Alongside the prestigious awards, the ceremony will serve as the backdrop for other landmark accomplishments, including potential Hall of Fame inductions for revered players such as Eli Manning, Jahri Evans, and Reggie Wayne. The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, with many fans eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winners—including Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who is favored to secure the Offensive Rookie of the Year Award after his phenomenal season.
But the NFL Honors ceremony isn’t just about celebrating on-field accomplishments; it’s also about highlighting the players’ contributions off the field. The past week has been rich with events surrounding the Super Bowl festivities, including the Gleason Celebrity Golf Classic held at Bayou Oaks at City Park. This classic directly supports Team Gleason, which focuses on enhancing the lives of people affected by ALS through innovative technology and empowerment initiatives.
The experience surrounding the NFL Honors doesn't end at the theater. The NOLA Walk of Fame will be unveiled on Canal Street, honoring several noteworthy figures, including Saints legends Archie Manning and Drew Brees, among others. It’s just another demonstration of the deep ties between the Saints and their community, reflecting the passion and spirit of New Orleans.
All of this leads up to the anticipated annual celebration of NFL excellence. The Saenger Theater has been transformed to host this grand event, with revamped seating arrangements creating the perfect atmosphere for the awards. With security heightened and logistical preparations ensuring smooth operations, attendees can focus solely on celebrating the game.
The buzz continues to build around the real stars of the night—the players. Through various mediums, fans can get glimpses of the glitz and glamour as their favorite athletes walk the red carpet leading up to the awards. Not only are they recognized for their athletic achievements, but they also gain visibility for their off-the-field contributions, inspiring fans and fellow players alike.
Prior to the awards ceremony, the Super Bowl Experience presented by Panini, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center runs through February 8, providing fans with immersive football activities—an event ensuring the excitement of the NFL endures well beyond the trophies and accolades.
With all these significant events coinciding, fans are left pondering: who will take home the top prizes? Will Cam Jordan’s hard work shine through with the Walter Payton Man of the Year award? How will the legacy of NFL legends like Drew Brees and Steve Gleason inspire the current generation of players? Only time will tell, as the countdown begins for what promises to be another unforgettable night for the NFL, its athletes, and the passionate fans who turn out to support their teams.