Matthew Stafford’s career revival reached another peak Thursday night — but the way it happened quickly became one of the most debated moments of the NFL season.

The Los Angeles Rams quarterback captured the 2025 NFL MVP Award, narrowly finishing ahead of New England Patriots rookie Drake Maye. Stafford’s victory came by the slimmest of margins: a five-point difference that immediately set off league-wide discussion.

What should have been a celebration of Stafford’s late-career excellence instead turned into a heated debate over how MVP votes are cast.

A Finish Too Close for Comfort

When the final numbers were released, Stafford totaled 366 MVP points. Maye trailed just behind with 361. While the race appeared tight, scrutiny grew once the individual ballots became public.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen picked up two first-place votes, and Los Angeles Chargers signal-caller Justin Herbert received one — despite Herbert not being among the official MVP finalists.

Those unexpected selections played a role in shaping the final standings and left many wondering whether the voting process skewed the result.

Analyst Defends His Ballot

Pro Football Focus analyst Sam Monson later acknowledged that he cast the lone first-place vote for Herbert. Taking to social media, Monson defended his choice by pointing to Herbert’s circumstances throughout the season.

According to Monson, Herbert consistently performed at a high level behind what he described as the league’s weakest offensive line. He contrasted that with Stafford’s struggles during a brief stretch when the Rams’ protection faltered.

Monson emphasized that his ballot still placed Stafford second and Maye third, insisting his vote alone did not determine the winner. Even so, critics argued that giving top votes to non-finalists undermined what was essentially a two-player race.

Critics Push Back

Rather than calming the controversy, Monson’s explanation intensified it.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, a vocal Patriots supporter, was among the most outspoken critics. He accused the voter of overthinking the process and costing Maye the award.

Portnoy’s comments struck a nerve with many fans who felt the MVP outcome hinged more on voter interpretation than pure performance on the field.

 A Bittersweet Moment for Detroit

For Lions fans, Stafford’s achievement carries mixed emotions.

After spending 12 seasons in Detroit, the former No. 1 overall pick has now added both a Super Bowl title and an MVP award since leaving the franchise — accomplishments that remain a sensitive subject in Motor City football circles.

Controversy aside, Stafford’s 2025 campaign was exceptional. His MVP win solidifies one of the most impressive late-stage turnarounds by a quarterback the league has ever seen.

Debate will continue, but the record books won’t change: Matthew Stafford is an NFL MVP.