Explore NFL Awards 2026, including recent NFL Honors winners and early predictions for MVP, OPOY, DPOY, rookies and more.

🏆 EXPLORE NFL AWARDS 2026

Introduction

The NFL Awards 2026 conversation is already heating up as football fans look ahead to another exciting NFL season. Every year, individual awards recognize the players and coaches who make the biggest impact on the field. From the Most Valuable Player award to Offensive Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year and Coach of the Year, these honors help define the biggest stories of the season.

However, there is an important distinction when discussing NFL Awards 2026.

The 2026 NFL Honors ceremony, held in February 2026, recognized performances from the 2025 NFL season. Matthew Stafford won MVP, Jaxon Smith-Njigba won Offensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett won Defensive Player of the Year, Tetairoa McMillan won Offensive Rookie of the Year, Carson Schwesinger won Defensive Rookie of the Year, Christian McCaffrey won Comeback Player of the Year, and Mike Vrabel was named Coach of the Year.

At the same time, the 2026 NFL season awards are a different story. Those winners will not be known until after the 2026 regular season and postseason award voting. At the beginning of the season, analysts and fans can only make predictions based on player talent, team expectations, previous performance and potential.

This guide covers both sides of the topic: the latest NFL Honors winners and the leading candidates for the 2026 NFL season awards.

What Are the NFL Awards?

The NFL presents several major individual awards each season to recognize outstanding performances.

Some of the most important awards include:

• NFL Most Valuable Player
• Offensive Player of the Year
• Defensive Player of the Year
• Offensive Rookie of the Year
• Defensive Rookie of the Year
• Coach of the Year
• Comeback Player of the Year
• Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year
• Assistant Coach of the Year
• Protector of the Year
• Deacon Jones Award

These awards cover different aspects of football.

The MVP usually goes to the player considered most valuable to his team’s success. Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards recognize exceptional production on their respective sides of the ball. Rookie awards highlight first-year players who make an immediate impact, while Coach of the Year recognizes outstanding leadership and team development.

Because the NFL season is unpredictable, early award predictions can change dramatically.

NFL Awards 2026 Winners: What Happened at NFL Honors?

One of the most important points for anyone searching NFL Awards 2026 is understanding what happened at the February 2026 NFL Honors ceremony.

The ceremony recognized the best performers from the 2025 season.

2025 Season NFL Honors Winners

AwardWinnerTeamMVPMatthew StaffordLos Angeles RamsOffensive Player of the YearJaxon Smith-NjigbaSeattle SeahawksDefensive Player of the YearMyles GarrettCleveland BrownsOffensive Rookie of the YearTetairoa McMillanCarolina PanthersDefensive Rookie of the YearCarson SchwesingerCleveland BrownsComeback Player of the YearChristian McCaffreySan Francisco 49ersCoach of the YearMike VrabelNew England PatriotsProtector of the YearJoe ThuneyChicago Bears

Matthew Stafford’s MVP victory was one of the major stories of the ceremony. He finished the 2025 season with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdown passes, helping the Rams remain one of the league’s biggest teams.

Myles Garrett also had a remarkable season, earning Defensive Player of the Year after a dominant pass-rushing campaign.

These results provide useful context when evaluating the early NFL Awards 2026 candidates.

NFL MVP 2026 Predictions

The Most Valuable Player award is usually the most discussed NFL individual honor.

Quarterbacks have dominated MVP voting in recent years because of their influence over every offensive possession. However, an MVP candidate typically needs more than impressive statistics.

Team success, consistency, leadership, efficiency and memorable performances can all influence the conversation.

Josh Allen

Josh Allen remains one of the strongest early MVP candidates.

The Buffalo Bills quarterback has already established himself as one of the league’s most dynamic players. His combination of passing ability, rushing production and big-game experience makes him an obvious candidate.

Early 2026 predictions have frequently mentioned Allen as a potential MVP winner.

If Buffalo finishes near the top of the AFC while Allen produces elite passing and rushing numbers, his case could become extremely strong.

Caleb Williams

Caleb Williams is another interesting name in the 2026 MVP conversation.

The Chicago Bears quarterback enters the season with increasing expectations, and several analysts believe his development could take another major step.

A breakout season combined with a strong Bears record could quickly transform Williams from a young quarterback with potential into a legitimate MVP contender.

Joe Burrow

Joe Burrow remains another major candidate.

When healthy, Burrow has demonstrated the ability to produce elite passing numbers and lead a high-powered offense. With weapons around him, he has the opportunity to create another strong MVP campaign.

The biggest question is whether Cincinnati can turn individual quarterback production into consistent team success.

Drake Maye

Drake Maye also deserves attention.

After showing significant progress, Maye enters 2026 with an opportunity to establish himself among the league’s top quarterbacks.

If the Patriots outperform expectations and Maye produces a high-level statistical season, the MVP conversation could become very interesting.

Other MVP Candidates

Other quarterbacks frequently appearing in early predictions include:

• Lamar Jackson
• Patrick Mahomes
• Justin Herbert
• Matthew Stafford
• Dak Prescott
• Brock Purdy

The MVP race will likely become clearer as the season progresses.

NFL Offensive Player of the Year 2026

The Offensive Player of the Year award is different from MVP.

A player does not necessarily need to be a quarterback to win it. Running backs, wide receivers and tight ends can all build strong cases.

Bijan Robinson

Bijan Robinson is one of the leading early candidates.

His combination of rushing ability, receiving skills and explosiveness makes him a dangerous offensive weapon.

If Atlanta gives Robinson a major workload and he produces elite total-yardage numbers, he could become one of the strongest OPOY candidates.

CeeDee Lamb

CeeDee Lamb is another major name.

Elite wide receivers can build an OPOY case through receiving yards, touchdowns, receptions and overall offensive importance.

A huge statistical season from Lamb could put him near the top of the award conversation.

Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey remains one of the NFL’s most versatile offensive players.

His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver gives him multiple ways to produce.

After winning Comeback Player of the Year following his return from injury, McCaffrey could continue to be an important name in the 2026 awards discussion.

Jahmyr Gibbs

Jahmyr Gibbs is another exciting offensive candidate.

His speed, receiving ability and big-play potential make him particularly dangerous in space.

If his workload increases and his production reaches elite levels, Gibbs could become a serious OPOY contender.

NFL Defensive Player of the Year 2026

Defensive Player of the Year is one of the most prestigious awards in the NFL.

Pass rushers often receive significant attention because sacks, pressures and game-changing defensive plays are highly visible.

Myles Garrett

Myles Garrett is one of the most obvious names in the conversation.

After winning Defensive Player of the Year for the 2025 season, Garrett enters 2026 with enormous expectations.

His ability to disrupt quarterbacks and create pressure makes him a constant threat.

An elite sack total and strong overall defensive impact could give him another opportunity to compete for the award.

Will Anderson Jr.

Will Anderson Jr. is another defensive player generating significant attention.

Young pass rushers can quickly become award candidates when their production reaches an elite level.

If Anderson produces consistent pressure and improves his sack numbers, he could challenge established defensive stars.

Other Defensive Candidates

Other players who could enter the conversation include:

• Aidan Hutchinson
• Micah Parsons
• Maxx Crosby
• T.J. Watt
• Nick Bosa
• Chris Jones

The defensive award often becomes much clearer after several weeks because injuries, matchups and defensive schemes can dramatically change the race.

Offensive Rookie of the Year 2026

The Offensive Rookie of the Year award is always one of the most exciting categories.

Rookies enter the NFL with tremendous expectations, but translating college success into immediate professional production is difficult.

Carnell Tate

Carnell Tate has received considerable attention as an early OROY candidate.

His combination of size, speed and route-running ability gives him an intriguing profile.

If he quickly develops chemistry with his quarterback and receives significant targets, he could become one of the year’s breakout rookies.

Jeremiyah Love

Jeremiyah Love is another name to watch.

Running backs can make immediate impacts when they receive significant workloads.

A strong rushing season combined with receiving production could make Love a major candidate.

Other Rookie Names to Watch

Other young offensive players may emerge as the season progresses.

The OROY race can change rapidly because opportunity is often just as important as talent.

A rookie selected outside the top few picks can sometimes become a major award contender if injuries or team changes create a larger role.

Defensive Rookie of the Year 2026

The Defensive Rookie of the Year race is equally unpredictable.

Defensive rookies need to adjust to NFL speed, offensive schemes and professional competition.

Arvell Reese

Arvell Reese has been mentioned as an early DROY candidate.

His versatility and athletic ability could allow him to contribute in multiple defensive situations.

If he becomes a consistent playmaker, his award case could grow throughout the season.

Caleb Downs

Caleb Downs is another highly discussed young defender.

His ability to read the field and contribute in the secondary gives him an opportunity to make an immediate impact.

Rookie defensive backs can build strong award cases through interceptions, tackles, pass breakups and game-changing plays.

David Bailey and Other Candidates

Other early candidates include David Bailey and several young defensive players expected to receive major roles.

The DROY race will likely become much more competitive after the first month of the season.

NFL Coach of the Year 2026 Predictions

Coach of the Year is one of the hardest awards to predict.

A coach does not necessarily need the best roster.

Often, the award goes to a coach who exceeds expectations, develops young players or leads a team through a major turnaround.

Ben Johnson

Ben Johnson is one of the strongest early candidates.

The Chicago Bears enter 2026 with significant expectations, and a major improvement in team performance could make Johnson a natural Coach of the Year candidate.

Kellen Moore

Kellen Moore is another coach receiving attention.

If his team significantly improves and reaches the postseason, his award case could become strong.

John Harbaugh

John Harbaugh remains one of the league’s most experienced coaches.

A strong season combined with a successful transition could put him into the conversation.

Other coaches who could emerge include Jesse Minter, Mike McDaniel and several coaches leading teams expected to outperform preseason expectations.

Comeback Player of the Year 2026

The Comeback Player of the Year award focuses on players who overcome major setbacks.

Injuries, disappointing seasons and career obstacles can all contribute to a comeback narrative.

Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes has been mentioned prominently in early 2026 predictions.

The Chiefs quarterback has already established himself as one of the NFL’s biggest stars.

A major bounce-back season could give him a strong narrative for the award.

Joe Burrow

Joe Burrow could also become part of the conversation if he returns to elite form and leads Cincinnati to a strong season.

Kyler Murray

Kyler Murray is another player who could benefit from a strong rebound campaign.

The Comeback Player race is particularly difficult to predict because circumstances can change quickly.

Why NFL Awards Predictions Are Difficult

Predicting NFL awards before the season is extremely challenging.

Several factors can change the entire award race.

1. Injuries

Injuries are one of the biggest variables.

A player can enter the season as a favorite but lose his opportunity after missing several games.

2. Team Performance

Individual statistics are important, but team success often influences award voting.

A quarterback with excellent statistics on a playoff team may receive more attention than a quarterback with similar numbers on a struggling team.

3. Strength of Schedule

Some players face much tougher opponents than others.

A difficult schedule can influence statistics and perceptions.

4. Supporting Cast

Quarterbacks depend on offensive lines, receivers and running games.

Similarly, defensive players benefit from strong teammates who create pressure or prevent opposing offenses from avoiding them.

5. Narrative

Narrative can play an important role.

A young quarterback leading a surprise playoff team or a veteran returning from injury may attract significant attention.

NFL Awards 2026 Comparison

AwardEarly CandidatesMVPJosh Allen, Caleb Williams, Joe BurrowOPOYBijan Robinson, CeeDee Lamb, Christian McCaffreyDPOYMyles Garrett, Will Anderson Jr., Aidan HutchinsonOROYCarnell Tate, Jeremiyah LoveDROYArvell Reese, Caleb Downs, David BaileyCoach of the YearBen Johnson, Kellen Moore, John HarbaughComeback PlayerPatrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Kyler Murray

These are early-season predictions, not official winners.

How NFL Awards Are Decided

Different NFL awards can involve different voting processes.

The Associated Press awards are particularly important when discussing major NFL honors.

Voters evaluate player performance throughout the regular season and consider factors such as:

• Statistical production
• Team success
• Consistency
• Individual impact
• Game-changing performances
• Leadership
• Overall importance to the team

This means that simply leading one statistical category does not automatically guarantee an award.

For example, an MVP candidate needs to demonstrate overall value rather than simply having the most passing yards.

What Statistics Matter for NFL Awards?

Statistics depend on the specific award.

MVP

Important factors include:

• Passing yards
• Passing touchdowns
• Interceptions
• Completion percentage
• Quarterback efficiency
• Rushing production
• Team record
• Playoff position

Offensive Player of the Year

Important statistics can include:

• Rushing yards
• Receiving yards
• Receptions
• Touchdowns
• Total yards
• Explosive plays

Defensive Player of the Year

Important metrics include:

• Sacks
• Tackles
• Tackles for loss
• Forced fumbles
• Interceptions
• Pass breakups
• Quarterback pressures

However, statistics do not tell the entire story.

Film evaluation, defensive assignments and overall impact also matter.

How the 2025 NFL Awards Could Influence 2026

The previous season’s awards can influence expectations going into the next season.

Matthew Stafford enters 2026 as the reigning MVP after his outstanding 2025 campaign.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba also enters the season following an exceptional Offensive Player of the Year performance.

Myles Garrett remains one of the biggest defensive stars after winning DPOY.

Christian McCaffrey’s comeback success adds another interesting storyline as he enters another season.

Young award winners such as Tetairoa McMillan and Carson Schwesinger also have opportunities to build on their rookie success.

However, previous awards do not guarantee future awards.

Every season creates new competition.

NFL Awards 2026 and Young Stars

One of the most exciting parts of the 2026 award conversation is the emergence of younger players.

Quarterbacks such as Caleb Williams and Drake Maye could potentially challenge established stars.

Young offensive players also have opportunities to become household names.

The NFL has repeatedly demonstrated that a player can move from promising prospect to major award candidate very quickly.

That is why monitoring statistics, playing time and team performance throughout the season is essential.

What Fans Should Watch During the Season

If you want to follow the NFL Awards 2026 race, pay attention to several things each week.

Watch the MVP Race

Track quarterback statistics and team records.

Follow Offensive Production

Look for players consistently producing touchdowns and explosive plays.

Monitor Defensive Impact

Sacks are important, but pressures, turnovers and overall defensive influence matter too.

Watch Rookie Snap Counts

Rookies cannot win major awards without meaningful opportunities.

Follow Team Turnarounds

Unexpected playoff contenders often produce strong Coach of the Year candidates.

Track Injuries

Player availability can completely change an award race.

NFL Awards 2026 FAQs

When are the NFL Awards 2026 announced?

The 2026 NFL Honors ceremony already took place in February 2026 and recognized the 2025 NFL season. The awards for the 2026 NFL season will be determined after the season concludes.

Who won the 2026 NFL MVP?

Matthew Stafford won the NFL MVP at the 2026 NFL Honors ceremony for his performance during the 2025 season.

Who won NFL Offensive Player of the Year?

Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks won Offensive Player of the Year for the 2025 season.

Who won Defensive Player of the Year?

Myles Garrett won Defensive Player of the Year after a dominant 2025 season.

Who won Offensive Rookie of the Year?

Tetairoa McMillan of the Carolina Panthers won Offensive Rookie of the Year for the 2025 season.

Who won Defensive Rookie of the Year?

Carson Schwesinger of the Cleveland Browns won Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Who won Coach of the Year?

Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots was named Coach of the Year for the 2025 season.

Who is the early MVP favorite for the 2026 NFL season?

There is no official 2026 season MVP favorite. Early predictions include Josh Allen, Caleb Williams, Joe Burrow, Drake Maye, Lamar Jackson and other elite quarterbacks.

Can a defensive player win MVP?

Yes. While quarterbacks have dominated recent MVP voting, the award is not restricted to quarterbacks.

Can a rookie win MVP?

Yes, although it is extremely difficult. A rookie would need an extraordinary season and significant impact on a successful team.

When will the 2026 NFL season award winners be known?

The final winners will be announced after the 2026 NFL season and the associated awards voting process.

Are NFL Awards predictions guaranteed?

No. Early predictions are opinions based on expected performance. Injuries, team results, player development and unexpected breakout seasons can completely change the award races.

Final Thoughts on NFL Awards 2026

The NFL Awards 2026 conversation combines established superstars, returning veterans and exciting young talent.

Matthew Stafford enters the 2026 season as the reigning MVP after an outstanding 2025 campaign. Myles Garrett returns as the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, while several young players are preparing for opportunities to establish themselves among the league’s elite.

For the 2026 season, names such as Josh Allen, Caleb Williams, Joe Burrow and Drake Maye are among the quarterbacks generating MVP discussion. Bijan Robinson, CeeDee Lamb and Christian McCaffrey are among the offensive players worth watching, while Myles Garrett and Will Anderson Jr. are prominent defensive candidates.

But the NFL is unpredictable.

A preseason favorite can struggle. An unexpected rookie can become a superstar. A team projected to finish near the bottom can make the playoffs. And one spectacular month can completely change the award conversation.

That is what makes following NFL awards throughout the season so exciting.

The best way to follow the NFL Awards 2026 race is to track weekly performances, team success, player statistics, injuries and emerging storylines. By the end of the season, today’s predictions could look completely different.

Author Bio

About the Author

The author is an SEO and sports-content writer focused on creating clear, engaging and research-driven NFL content. Their work covers NFL awards, player performances, team storylines, season predictions and major football trends, helping readers stay informed throughout the season.