The 2025 NFL Honors in New Orleans was a night of glitz, glamour, and gridiron greatness. While the Super Bowl is just around the corner, the spotlight was firmly on the individual stars who lit up the 2024 NFL season. And no one shone brighter than Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who took home the league’s most prestigious individual award: the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Allen’s MVP win capped off a phenomenal season, solidifying his place among the NFL’s elite. But the night wasn’t just about Allen—it was a celebration of the league’s best players, coaches, and legends. Here’s a breakdown of the unforgettable moments from the 2025 NFL Honors.
Table of Contents
Josh Allen: The MVP King
Josh Allen’s 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular. The Bills’ signal-caller put on a masterclass in quarterbacking, combining his cannon arm, pinpoint accuracy, and elite athleticism to dominate defenses week after week.
- Stat Line for 2024: 68% completion rate, 4,800+ passing yards, 42 touchdowns, and countless highlight-reel plays.
- Leadership: Allen’s poise and determination were instrumental in leading the Bills to a dominant regular season and cementing their status as Super Bowl contenders.
The MVP race was a nail-biter, with Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson pushing Allen to the limit. Jackson’s electrifying dual-threat abilities made him a worthy contender, but Allen’s consistency and impact on the Bills’ success ultimately won over the voters. Allen secured 383 points and 27 first-place votes, edging out Jackson’s 362 points and 23 first-place votes.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Allen remained humble and gracious, deflecting praise to his teammates, coaches, and the Bills organization. He also gave a special shoutout to the Bills Mafia, saying, “The city of Buffalo is unlike any other. Your passion, your energy, your unwavering support—it means the world to me. This award is for you.”
The One That Got Away: Offensive Player of the Year
While Allen’s MVP win was the highlight of the night, many expected him to complete the sweep by taking home the Offensive Player of the Year award. However, that honor went to Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Barkley, who bounced back from an injury-riddled 2023 season, reminded the league why he’s one of the most dynamic playmakers in football. His ability to dominate both as a runner and a receiver made him a nightmare for defenses and earned him the well-deserved recognition.
Other Award Winners: Celebrating Excellence
The 2025 NFL Honors wasn’t just about Josh Allen. The night was filled with deserving winners who left their mark on the 2024 season. Here are some of the standout award recipients:
- AP Coach of the Year: Kevin O’Connell (Minnesota Vikings)
O’Connell led the Vikings to an unexpected playoff berth in just his second year as head coach, revitalizing their offense and earning widespread acclaim. - AP Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals)
Burrow’s remarkable recovery from a season-ending knee injury was nothing short of inspirational. He returned to lead the Bengals to another successful season, proving why he’s one of the league’s brightest stars. - AP Defensive Player of the Year: Patrick Surtain II (Denver Broncos)
Surtain emerged as one of the league’s top cornerbacks, shutting down opposing receivers and playing a key role in the Broncos’ defensive success. - AP Offensive Rookie of the Year: Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders)
Daniels burst onto the scene with his electrifying playmaking ability and a cannon for an arm, quickly establishing himself as a rising star. - AP Defensive Rookie of the Year: Jared Verse (Los Angeles Rams)
Verse made an immediate impact as one of the most disruptive defensive rookies, terrorizing opposing offenses with his relentless motor. - Walter Payton Man of the Year: Arik Armstead (Jacksonville Jaguars)
Armstead’s dedication to community service and making a positive impact off the field earned him this prestigious honor.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025: Legends Immortalized
The NFL Honors also served as the stage for the announcement of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025. This year’s inductees included some of the greatest players to ever grace the gridiron:
- Antonio Gates: The legendary tight end redefined the position with his athleticism and receiving prowess.
- Jared Allen: A dominant pass rusher who terrorized quarterbacks with his relentless motor and array of moves.
- Eric Allen: A shutdown cornerback known for his physical style of play and ability to lock down top receivers.
- Sterling Sharpe: A prolific wide receiver whose career was cut short by injury but whose impact on the game remains undeniable.
These legends will forever be enshrined in Canton, Ohio, their contributions to the game celebrated for generations to come.
Looking Ahead: The Super Bowl and Beyond
As the NFL Honors ceremony came to a close, the focus shifted to the Super Bowl, where the league’s two best teams will battle for the ultimate prize. But the night also served as a reminder of the individual brilliance that makes the NFL so captivating.
For Josh Allen, the 2025 NFL Honors was a night he’ll never forget. His MVP triumph was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As he continues to lead the Buffalo Bills, the future looks brighter than ever for both Allen and the team.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NFL Honors was a night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration. From Josh Allen’s MVP win to the induction of football legends into the Hall of Fame, the evening highlighted the best of what the NFL has to offer. As we look ahead to the Super Bowl and beyond, one thing is clear: the NFL is in great hands, with stars like Allen leading the way.
What were your favorite moments from the 2025 NFL Honors? Let us know in the comments below!