By: Joseph Gigliotti 

     The 2025 NFL Honors event was a spectacular celebration of the best performances and achievements in the National Football League over the past season. Held in New Orleans, the star-studded event brought together players, coaches, celebrities, and fans to honor the outstanding contributions to the sport.  

     The Squire interviewed, Eisenhower football player, Logan Penley to ask him what impact the 2025 NFL Honors will have on the upcoming season, and he commented, “It will test the players to show us if they really deserved the award.” This year’s ceremony was particularly memorable due to several groundbreaking moments and well-deserved recognitions. 

     One of the highlights of the 2025 NFL Honors was the presentation of the Most Valuable Player award. The prestigious accolade went to Josh Allen, quarterback of the Buffalo Bills. Allen had an extraordinary season, leading his team to a remarkable 13-4 record and showcasing his exceptional skills and leadership on the field. His ability to make clutch plays in critical moments and his consistency throughout the season made him a clear choice for the MVP. Allen’s acceptance speech was one of a kind, as he thanked his teammates, coaches, and family for their support. 

     The Squire interviewed, Eisenhower student and Buffalo Bills fan, Carson Ferman and asked him, what the MVP season meant to him and the organization, and he responded, “It shows that he can be the best quarterback in the league despite everyone thinking he was going to fall off because he doesn’t have a true wide receiver one. For the organization, I don’t think it matters until they get a Super Bowl.” 

     Another significant award presented during the evening was the Defensive Player of the Year. This honor was given to Patrick Surtain of the Denver Broncos. His dominance in the secondary helped the overall success the Broncos had this season. His ability to read quarterback’s eyes, make plays on the ball, and disrupt opposing offenses earned him this well-deserved recognition. Surtain’s performance was not only about statistics but also his impact on his games’ outcomes, making him a standout player in the league. 

     The Offensive Rookie of the Year award was another eagerly anticipated moment. This year, it went to Jayden Daniels, the dynamic quarterback for the Washington Commanders. Daniels quickly adapted to the professional level, demonstrating poise, accuracy, and playmaking ability beyond his years. His impressive rookie campaign included several game-winning drives and highlight-reel plays, making him a rising star in the NFL. 

     Defensive Rookie of the Year was won by outside linebacker, Jared Verse. Verse stepped up on the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive line, replacing retired defensive tackle and future Hall of Fame member, Aaron Donald. Ferman was asked if he thought someone else should’ve won this award. He argued, “I feel like Cooper Dejean should have gotten DROTY…” 

     In addition to individual player awards, the 2025 NFL Honors also recognized coaches who made significant contributions to their teams’ success. The Coach of the Year award was presented to Kevin O’Connell of the Minnesota Vikings. Ferman shared that he thinks O’Connell is a fair and unbiased choice, explaining, “He had the greatest coaching year of a Vikings head coach since the Super Bowl era.” His innovative offensive schemes and ability to find the potential of his players led the Vikings to their best season in decades. His leadership and strategic coaching were key to the team’s success, and this award was a no-brainer. 

     The Walter Payton Man of the Year award, which honors a player’s excellence both on and off the field, was presented to Arik Armstead. Armstead’s contributions to his community, including charitable work and other programs, created the spirit of this prestigious award. His dedication to making a positive impact beyond the game was very inspiring. 

     The 2025 NFL Honors was a night to remember, celebrating the best of the best in the league. The event not only highlighted the incredible talent and achievements of the players and coaches but also highlighted the importance of sportsmanship, community involvement, and the love for the game. Penley described which award presentation he felt was the best, saying, “I think Barkley was because he touched people’s hearts and I’m an Eagles’ fan.” Saquon Barkley took home the award for Offensive Player of the Year after rushing for over 2000 yards for only the ninth time in history. Fans look forward to the next season, as the memories of this year’s event will remind everyone of the greatness witnessed on and off the field.