2024 NFL Season Awards: MVP, Rookies, and Coaches Honored

The 2024 NFL season concluded with a flurry of debates and decisions as analysts and fans alike weighed in on the year’s top performers. In a recent episode of Football 301, Nate Tice, Matt Harmon, and Charles McDonald discussed their picks for the season’s most prestigious awards, including MVP, Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, and Coach of the Year.

The MVP race was particularly contentious, with Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen emerging as the frontrunners. Jackson’s dynamic playmaking and Allen’s consistent performance kept the debate alive until the final games of the season. Meanwhile, Saquon Barkley‘s historic 2,000-yard rushing season made him a strong contender for Offensive Player of the Year, though Ja'Marr Chase‘s Triple Crown performance in receiving yards, touchdowns, and receptions also garnered significant attention.

On the defensive side, Patrick Surtain II‘s lockdown coverage and game-changing plays positioned him as the favorite for Defensive Player of the Year. His ability to neutralize top receivers week after week was a key factor in his team’s success.

The Coach of the Year discussion highlighted the remarkable turnarounds led by Dan Campbell in Detroit and Kevin O'Connell in Minnesota. Campbell’s leadership and resilience were instrumental in the Lions’ playoff push, while O’Connell’s ability to revitalize Sam Darnold‘s career was a testament to his coaching acumen.

Assistant Coach of the Year honors went to Aaron Glenn for his defensive turnaround in Detroit and Joe Gilbert for his work with the Carolina Panthers’ offensive line. Both coaches played pivotal roles in their teams’ improvements throughout the season.

Executive of the Year recognition was awarded to Jason Licht of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Brad Holmes of the Detroit Lions. Their savvy draft picks and strategic trades were crucial in building competitive rosters.

In the rookie categories, Jayden Daniels and Brock Bowers were standout candidates for Offensive Rookie of the Year, while Quinyon Mitchell, Jared Verse, and Nate Wiggins were among the top contenders for Defensive Rookie of the Year. Their performances provided a glimpse into the future of the league.

As the NFL prepares for the offseason, these awards serve as a celebration of the talent and dedication that defined the 2024 season. Fans and analysts alike will continue to debate the outcomes, but one thing is certain: the future of the NFL is in good hands.