The 2025 NFL regular season has come to a close, and as we gear up for the playoffs, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the standout performances and recognize deserving players with awards. This marks the final round of awards I will be handing out this season, following previous assessments after Week 4 and Week 9, culminating in these final selections.
In the mix for accolades are the Coach of the Year, Comeback Player of the Year, the new Protector of the Year, alongside Offensive and Defensive Rookie and Player of the Year awards. Naturally, the pinnacle of these honors will culminate in the choice for Most Valuable Player (MVP).
**Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY)** has seen fluctuating favorites throughout the season. Initially, Carson Schwesinger was the frontrunner but as events unfolded, Abdul Carter emerged as a fierce contender. Nevertheless, the defensive draft class of 2025 hasn’t shined as brightly as expected, with several top picks suffering injuries that kept them off the field. While some promising talents like Deone Walker and Derrick Harmon have made impressions, it’s hard to overlook the impact of Falcons’ rusher, who led rookies with an impressive 10.5 sacks. His streak of six consecutive games with at least one sack ties him with all-time greats, albeit his performance fell short of their elite standards.
**Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY)** is a tight race, with Tyler Warren standing out for his contributions. The lack of consistent production from strong candidates such as running backs and receivers means Warren’s versatility as a tight end, combined with his significant receiving yards, placed him in the limelight. His adaptability within Shane Steichen’s expansive Colts offense showcases his potential to continue growing as a centerpiece for the team.
The **Protector of the Year** award highlights the unsung heroes on the offensive line. This season’s evaluation has been rife with injuries to several star tackles, impacting their candidacy. Notably, the esteemed left tackle from the 49ers performed admirably before his midseason injury and was pivotal for a struggling offense in the latter part of the season.
As for the **Comeback Player of the Year**, several players are in the conversation, including Philip Rivers and the Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson. Rivers, at age 44, demonstrated determination by performing commendably in his limited opportunities after a long hiatus from football, while Hutchinson posted a stellar season following a significant injury.
The **Coach of the Year** award is fiercely contested. Seattle’s Mike Macdonald stands out for orchestrating a 14-3 record amidst challenges, effectively leveraging a subpar offense while his defense surged. The 49ers’ Kyle Shanahan and the Bears’ Ben Johnson also merit recognition for guiding their teams through tumultuous paths.
Finally, the **Defensive Player of the Year**, largely hinged on the remarkable performance by Myles Garrett, who set a new single-season sack record. His relentless pressure and ability to create havoc in opponent’s backfields were nothing short of historic.
As the postseason dawns, these awards serve as a testament to the remarkable talent and resilience showcased throughout the 2025 NFL regular season. The anticipation builds for the playoffs, where these talented players can further etch their names in NFL history. With promising prospects and compelling narratives emerging, fans are eager to witness how the postseason unfolds.