Matthew Stafford Secures NFL MVP and Looks Forward to Another Season with Rams

Matthew Stafford has been honored with the AP NFL Most Valuable Player award, and he’s made it clear that he plans to return to the Los Angeles Rams for another season. On Thursday night, Stafford narrowly beat out Drake Maye for the MVP title in what was the closest contest since the 2003 tie between Peyton Manning and Steve McNair. Stafford earned 24 of the 50 first-place votes, while Maye secured 23. Despite not clinching the MVP, Maye still has a shot at earning the Vince Lombardi Trophy as he leads the New England Patriots against the Seattle Seahawks in the upcoming Super Bowl.

As Stafford approaches his 38th birthday, he expressed his eagerness for another Super Bowl victory with the Rams. To the AP, he stated, Oh yeah, I’ll be back. It was such an amazing season and I play with such a great group of guys and great group of coaches that I was lucky enough to finish this season healthy, and I wanna make sure that I go out there and see what happens next year. The star quarterback brought his four daughters to the stage in identical black-and-white dresses as he received his award. He concluded by thanking his family, saying, You’re unbelievable cheerleaders for me. I appreciate it. I am so happy to have you at the games on the sideline with me, and I can’t wait for you to cheer me on next year when we’re out there kicking (butt).

This announcement follows Stafford’s contemplation of retirement, but he has committed to another season, eager to chase another championship. Notably, the Rams were edged out by Seattle in the NFC championship game this season.

2025 NFL Award Winners

The night was filled with honors as several other players and coaches received recognition for their outstanding performances throughout the season. Myles Garrett was the unanimous AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, setting a record with 23 sacks. Jaxon Smith-Njigba won the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year award, outshining Christian McCaffrey. The Coach of the Year honor went to New England’s Mike Vrabel, who brought his team from last place to the top of the AFC East.

In-Depth Insight on Award Recipients

Myles Garrett: Garrett became the ninth player to achieve the Defensive Player of the Year title multiple times and was unanimous this year, joining J.J. Watt in this rare feat. He attributed his success to his teammates, organization, and coaches, emphasizing the collective effort behind his personal achievements.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba: The wide receiver secured 14 first-place votes and finished with 272 points. During the season, he led the league with 1,793 receiving yards and caught 119 passes.

Christian McCaffrey: Standing out as the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year, McCaffrey achieved a remarkable recovery from injury to rack up 2,126 yards from scrimmage and 17 touchdowns for the 49ers.

Meanwhile, Carson Schwesinger was a standout talent, clinching the AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. The Panthers’ Tetairoa McMillan proudly walked away with the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, having caught 70 passes for 1,014 yards in his debut season.

The AP NFL Assistant Coach of the Year award was claimed by Patriots Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels, earning this recognition in his first season back for a third tenure with the team.

These achievements were determined by 50 media members who consistently cover the NFL. The point system used was implemented in 2022, ensuring fair representation through weighted votes, with first-place accolades earning the most points.