Matthew Stafford’s long wait for his first NFL MVP award finally came to an end, edging out Drake Maye in a close vote and making him one of the oldest players ever to win the honor. It was a career-defining night for the Los Angeles Rams quarterback, but the most memorable moment came before the official celebration.
Before accepting the award at the NFL Honors, Stafford received an unexpected and heartwarming tribute from his daughters and wife, Kelly, who presented him with their own award: Most Valuable Dad.
Matthew Stafford’s MVP Night Gets an Adorable Family Twist
Before receiving the league’s highest honor at NFL Honors, Stafford was escorted into the Rams’ film room under the assumption he was there to review tape. Instead, the screen lit up with a surprise message from his four daughters.
In the video, each girl shared what she loves most about her dad, including one who proudly shouted out his no-look passes, as Stafford watched, visibly overwhelmed. The tribute ended with the family naming him their “Most Valuable Dad” and presenting him with a custom MVD award.
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Matthew Stafford receives a wholesome surprise from his girls before MVP win— za (@flowporttt) February 7, 2026
Moments later, Stafford’s daughters and wife, Kelly, entered the room chanting “MVP, MVP” to celebrate the milestone. The family later attended NFL Honors together, coordinating black outfits to match Stafford’s all-black tuxedo.
Stafford and Kelly have been married since 2015 and have built a close-knit family deeply involved in his football journey. Still, Kelly made it clear that family always comes first.
“He always puts my daughters and myself first,” Kelly told E! News recently. “If we all asked him to retire, he would do it. He shows up for us.”
After accepting the award, Stafford confirmed he plans to return next season. “So I’ll see you guys next year,” he said.
Stafford edged out Maye in one of the closest MVP races in recent memory, winning by just five points, the tightest finish since 2003.
At 38, Stafford more than earned the honor. Per PFSN’s NFL QB Impact Metric, in the 2025/26 season, he was 1st in passing yards (4707), 1st in passing touchdowns (46), third in passes completed (388), and 4th in net yards per attempt (7.60). His play elevated the Rams’ offense to another level, ranking first in PFSN’s NFL Offensive Impact Metric.
Maye made a strong case of his own, but voters ultimately leaned Stafford’s way, and to his daughters, there was never any doubt.
