Former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had a historic night on February 6, capturing the NFL MVP award after leading the Los Angeles Rams to an impressive 2025 season. Stafford, who played in Detroit from 2009 to 2020, earned the honor following years of perseverance and elite performance with both the Lions and Rams.
During his acceptance speech, Stafford gave an emotional tribute to his family, especially his wife, Kelly Stafford, and their four daughters.
“I want to let you know the sacrifices. I see you. I love you,” Stafford said. “I appreciate you very much. And to my four beautiful daughters — Chandler, Sawyer, Hunter, Tyler — I’m so happy to share this moment with you. You’re unbelievable cheerleaders for me.”
Stafford also surprised fans by announcing he will return for an 18th NFL season with the Rams.
“I am so happy to have my daughters on the sideline with me, and I can’t wait for them to cheer me on next year when we’re out there kicking,” Stafford added.
Patriots Take Subtle Shot at Stafford After MVP Win
While Stafford celebrated his MVP victory, the New England Patriots showed public support for their quarterback, Drake Maye, who finished a close second in voting.
Following the MVP announcement, the Patriots posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Bigger trophy on the mind,” alongside a photo of Maye — a message widely interpreted as a subtle dig at Stafford.
Fans quickly reacted online:
“No Super Bowl ring or MVP after Sunday despite having the easiest schedule in history,” one fan wrote in support of Stafford.
“Love that mindset, regular awards are cool but the big one hits different,” another commented.
“The only award that matters is the Lombardi,” said another.
One fan added, “45-6 Seahawks,” referencing a painful Patriots loss.
Rams Season Ends Short of Super Bowl Despite MVP Performance
The Los Angeles Rams finished the regular season 12-5 and advanced to the NFC Championship Game, but their Super Bowl hopes ended with a 31-27 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on January 25.
Despite the playoff disappointment, Stafford’s individual performance earned him top honors.
NFL MVP Voting Results and Final Standings
Stafford secured 24 of 50 first-place votes and finished with 366 total points. Maye followed closely with 23 first-place votes and 361 points, marking the closest MVP race since Peyton Manning and Steve McNair shared the award in 2003.
Final MVP vote totals included:
Matthew Stafford (Rams) – 24 first-place votes, 366 points
Drake Maye (Patriots) – 23 first-place votes, 361 points
Josh Allen (Bills) – 2 first-place votes
Justin Herbert (Chargers) – 1 first-place vote
Christian McCaffrey (49ers)
Trevor Lawrence (Jaguars)
Stafford becomes the first former Detroit Lions quarterback to win NFL MVP since leaving the franchise, further strengthening his Hall of Fame résumé.
