In one of the tightest races in NFL history, Stafford edged Drake Maye to earn the first MVP award of his career. Stafford beat out the Patriots quarterback by just five points, making it the closest MVP voted since 2003 when Steve McNair and Peyton Manning tied for the award.

Stafford edges Patriots quarterback Drake Maye in the closest MVP race since Peyton Manning and Steve McNair were co-winners in 2003, then confirms his plans to return for an 18th season during

The AP NFL MVP award went to Matthew Stafford at the 2026 NFL Honors. Other winners announced Thursday included Christian McCaffrey, Joe Thuney, Myles Garrett and Carson Schwesinger.

After accepting the award, Stafford announced that he will be returning in 2026 after initial speculation that the veteran may retire, saying, "I'll see you guys next year." Stafford now becomes the oldest quarterback to win his first NFL MVP award at 37 years old.

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett made history during the 2025 NFL season. The veteran broke the single-season record in sacks against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18, finishing with 23,

NFL fans around the country are calling for ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky to lose his MVP vote. Before the NFL Honors ceremony took place Thursday night, Orlovsky revealed that he voted for Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.