2025 Midseason NFL Awards
- Most Valuable Player: Matthew Stafford, QB, Rams (13 votes)
- Offensive Player of the Year: Jonathan Taylor, RB, Colts (27.5)
- Defensive Player of the Year: Myles Garrett, DE, Browns (30)
- Offensive Rookie of the Year: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Buccaneers (26.5)
- Defensive Rookie of the Year: Carson Schwesinger, Browns (15.5)
- Coach of the Year: Shane Steichen, Colts (16.5)
- Executive of the Year: John Schneider, Seahawks (23)
This summer, there were concerns about Matthew Stafford’s health after a back injury limited his participation during training camp. He practiced in pads starting August 18, almost a month after the proactive Rams reported, and skipped the preseason games, raising doubts about the severity of the injury.
Despite the worries, the Rams had a strategy for managing their 37-year-old quarterback. They understood that with his injury history, it wasn’t necessary to overextend him during practice. With Jimmy Garoppolo secured as a reliable backup, they felt confident in giving Stafford the rest he needed, prioritizing recovery over repetitions.
By midseason of the 2025 season, Stafford’s performance garnered him the MVP title in our awards poll, which included insights from 42 football executives. He secured the top spot among a competitive MVP race, receiving 13 votes and surpassing Josh Allen by five votes, with a significant lead over other contenders.
Stafford’s impressive statistics, including a projected 4,562 yards with a remarkable 45-to-4 touchdown to interception ratio, display his efficiency and consistency. He’s led the Rams to a tie for first in the NFC West despite facing tough opponents, proving his value by elevating the performance of teammates like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, highlighting his unparalleled influence on the field.
Additionally, Jonathan Taylor emerged as a top contender for Offensive Player of the Year, showcasing his fundamental role in the Colts’ offense. With a record of 7-2 under his performance, Taylor is on pace for a remarkable season, noted for being one of five players potentially reaching 2,000 yards from scrimmage.
On the defensive side, Myles Garrett’s dominance with 10 sacks positions him as the clear favorite for Defensive Player of the Year, a recognition of his consistent ability to disrupt opposing offenses and a testament to his skills amid challenging circumstances.
Lastly, the Coach of the Year category features Shane Steichen of the Colts and John Schneider, the Seahawks’ executive, each revered for their contributions to the team’s successes and futures. Both have positioned their teams firmly within playoff contention, demonstrating the impact of effective leadership in the NFL.
