The red carpet is rolled out at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco as the football world gathers for the 15th annual NFL Honors 2026 winners ceremony. With Super Bowl LX just three days away, the league is set to crown its top performers from the 2025-26 season in a star-studded gala hosted by actor Jon Hamm. While the night promises celebration, the tension is palpable surrounding the NFL MVP 2026 announcement, where a veteran gunslinger looks to finally capture his first league MVP award against a surging young challenger.

Matthew Stafford vs. Drake Maye: A Generational MVP Battle

The headline story of the night is the race for the Most Valuable Player award. Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has emerged as the heavy favorite to win, capping off a historic 17th NFL season. Stafford led the league with a staggering 46 touchdown passes—tying his career high—and threw for 4,707 yards, securing First-Team All-Pro honors. For many voters, this feels like a legacy award for the 37-year-old, whose "Texas Gunner" style kept the Rams in contention despite a grueling schedule.

However, the race isn't a guaranteed coronation. New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has made a compelling case in his breakout sophomore campaign. Maye, who will lead his team against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX on Sunday, orchestrated a stunning turnaround for the Patriots, guiding them to a 14-3 record. Proponents of Drake Maye NFL Honors recognition point to his league-leading efficiency metrics and superior EPA (Expected Points Added) per play. While oddsmakers have Stafford at -900, Maye's narrative as the architect of New England's resurgence keeps the suspense alive.

Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026: First-Ballot Locks?

Beyond the season awards, history will be made with the announcement of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This year's slate of 15 Modern-Era finalists is arguably one of the strongest in recent memory, featuring several legends eligible for the first time.

Two names are widely considered "locks" for induction tonight:

  • Drew Brees: The NFL's all-time leader in multiple passing categories at the time of his retirement, Brees is expected to sail into Canton on his first ballot.
  • Larry Fitzgerald: The Arizona Cardinals icon, beloved for his sure hands and character, is another near-certain first-ballot selection.

The debate intensifies for the remaining spots. Eli Manning, in his second year of eligibility, presents a fascinating case with his two Super Bowl MVPs but inconsistent regular-season stats. Meanwhile, defensive stalwarts like Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs are hoping to hear their names called. The induction of the Class of 2026 will be a highlight of the broadcast, cementing the legacies of players who defined the 2000s and 2010s.

Rookies and New Hardware: What Else to Watch For

While the MVP race dominates the headlines, the future of the league will also be on display. The Offensive Rookie of the Year award appears to be a runaway victory for Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. The rookie sensation broke franchise records with over 1,000 receiving yards, providing a bright spot in Carolina's season. On the defensive side, Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger has turned heads with a league-leading tackle count, making him a frontrunner for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

New "Protector of the Year" Award Debuts

For the first time, the NFL Honors will recognize the unsung heroes of the gridiron with the "Protector of the Year" award, given to the league's best offensive lineman. This new accolade, voted on by former offensive linemen, adds a layer of appreciation for the trenches. It’s a fitting addition to a night that celebrates every facet of the game, from Jon Hamm NFL awards monologues to the Walter Payton Man of the Year presentation.

Super Bowl LX Backdrop

Tonight's festivities serve as the ultimate appetizer for Sunday's Super Bowl LX news. The presence of the Patriots and Seahawks players adds a unique dynamic to the room. While Drake Maye waits to see if he can upset Stafford for MVP, his primary focus remains on the Lombardi Trophy. It is rare for an MVP winner to play in the Super Bowl the same season—the famous "MVP Curse" hasn't been broken since 1999. If Maye does pull off the upset tonight, New England fans might be holding their breath for Sunday.

As Jon Hamm takes the stage at the Palace of Fine Arts, the 2025-26 NFL season officially begins its final chapter. Whether it's Stafford's long-awaited recognition or a shock victory for Maye, tonight promises to be a celebration of football excellence.