Tom Brady knows a thing or two about winning the NFL MVP Award, as the seven-time champion won the award on three separate occasions – in 2007, 2010 and 2017.
So, when it comes to conversations about the league’s MVP this season, Brady’s opinion carries some weight, and he’s made his pick.
Tom Brady picks Rams' Matthew Stafford as 2025 NFL MVP
In Brady’s eyes, Los Angeles Rams star quarterback Matthew Stafford deserves to hoist the hardware this year after throwing for 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns while leading the Rams to a 12-5 record.
The way Brady sees it, Stafford narrowly edged out New England Patriots QB Drake Maye, though he made sure to make it clear that he doesn't get a vote for the award.
“I don't get a vote. I think what Matthew Stafford has done this season has been absolutely remarkable,” Brady said. “46 touchdowns, for any quarterback, that’s a dream season. So, he’s been spectacular.
“Drake Maye, on the other side, has done some incredible things with Josh McDaniels in their first year together. Drake’s got a long career ahead. I’m sure he’s going to have many opportunities [to win MVP]. I would say Matthew Stafford.”
Matthew Stafford or Drake Maye? 👀 @TomBrady settles the MVP debate. Pic.twitter.com/rHSflmtP38
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) January 5, 2026
Both Stafford and Maye are technically deserving of the award, but Stafford has the statistical edge, which could ultimately swing the vote in his favor.
Upon catching wind of Brady's pick, Stafford was humbled.
"I obviously have so much respect, like everybody does, for what Tom was able to accomplish in his career and his view of the game and how he sees it," Stafford said on the Let's Go! Podcast, via Bleacher Report. "He's got as good an eye as anybody, just from experience and the mind that he has. So I'm humbled to be his choice."
The winner of the MVP Award will be officially announced at the annual NFL Honors, which will take place at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco on Feb. 5.