Myles Garrett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba Earn Top NFL Honors at NFL Honors Ceremony

6 February 2026 Sports

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The NFL’s elite gathered Thursday night to celebrate the standout performers of the 2025 season at the annual NFL Honors ceremony, where Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett and Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba received the league’s highest individual accolades. Garrett was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year for the second time in his career, earning unanimous selection after a historic season that saw him set a new league record with 23 sacks. This achievement surpassed the previous marks held by Pittsburgh Steelers’ T.J. Watt and New York Giants legend Michael Strahan, both of whom had long been considered among the best pass rushers in NFL history. Garrett’s record-breaking sack came in the Browns’ thrilling 20-18 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in the season finale, where he brought down quarterback Joe Burrow to seal the moment. Throughout the season, Garrett also matched a career high with 60 total tackles, forced three fumbles, and broke up a pass, underscoring his dominant presence on defense. The Browns star’s relentless pressure and playmaking ability were instrumental in Cleveland’s defensive resurgence this year. Meanwhile, Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks was honored as the NFL Offensive Player of the Year, a testament to his explosive impact as a wide receiver. Smith-Njigba’s dynamic playmaking has helped propel the Seahawks’ offense as they prepare for Super Bowl LX, with his ability to stretch defenses and make clutch catches earning widespread acclaim. The NFL Honors event, held annually to recognize the league’s top performers, also spotlighted other rising stars and veterans who shaped the 2025 campaign. Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger was named Defensive Rookie of the Year, highlighting Cleveland’s infusion of young talent on defense. The ceremony took place in San Francisco, drawing fans and media attention as anticipation builds toward the upcoming Super Bowl. Garrett’s record-setting season and Smith-Njigba’s offensive prowess reflect the evolving landscape of the NFL, where defensive dominance and explosive offense continue to captivate audiences nationwide. For more details on the NFL Honors and player achievements, visit the official NFL website. Additional information on defensive records and player statistics can be found through the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the ESPN NFL coverage. Fans looking to follow the upcoming Super Bowl LX can find schedules and broadcast details at the NFL Super Bowl page.

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Marcus Reed follows major U.S. leagues, college sports and big events with an eye for the business, culture and community stories that live beyond the scoreboard.
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