Matthew Stafford Wins MVP: Kelly Stafford Surprises Rams QB With Most Valuable Dad Award

Matthew Stafford was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player on Thursday night, but a more poignant and cute award came from home for him. Before the Los Angeles Rams quarterback accepted the league’s highest individual prize at NFL Honors, his wife Kelly and their four daughters surprised him with a homemade video tribute.

In the video, each girl shared what she loves most about their father. The video ended with the family crowning Stafford their “Most Valuable Dad” and presenting him with an MVD award. The video created an emotional centerpiece for what would become one of the most memorable nights of his career.

The tribute quickly resonated with fans and media. It reinforced Stafford’s reputation as a devoted family man whose priorities extend far beyond football. While MVP trophies are rare and prestigious, the ‘MVD’ recognition offered a more personal glimpse into how his daughters view him away from stadium lights and national broadcasts.

A little after receiving the MVD award, Stafford officially claimed his first career MVP, edging out New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye in a closely contested race. The honor is an apt reward for a remarkable late-career resurgence from the former Detroit Lions star.

Stafford has revitalized his career after being traded to Los Angeles in 2021. More than a decade into his NFL journey, Stafford’s continued excellence has defied expectations and reaffirmed his place among the league’s elite.

The Rams star arrived at the ceremony alongside Kelly and their daughters. The family, in coordinated black outfits that matched Stafford’s all-black tuxedo, drew attention on the red carpet.

When Stafford took the stage to accept the award, his family joined him, creating one of the night’s most emotional moments. During his speech, he also appeared to confirm that he plans to return for another season, closing with the words, “So I’ll see you guys next year.”

The remark, which was met with cheers, is reassurance for Rams fans amid ongoing speculation about Stafford’s future.

Kelly Stafford, who hosts the popular podcast The Morning After, has long been open about the challenges of raising a young family while her husband navigates the pressures of professional football. Last season, she shared that she and the girls traveled to support Stafford in a playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings despite a serious illness hitting the household.

Kelly admitted feeling conflicted about the decision, questioning whether it was responsible to travel under those circumstances. However, she chose to go after support.

Recalling the experience, Kelly highlighted the daughters’ commitment to their father and the team. “This girl,” she said of one daughter, “in the middle of her pukes in the bathroom, ‘Mommy, are we still winning?’” The moment underscored how deeply football has become woven into the Stafford family’s life.

Kelly has also credited Stafford with being the stabilizing presence in their home. In an interview with E! News, she described him as a calming force who helps balance her high-energy personality and daily stress. She has repeatedly emphasized that, despite his public image and professional success, he remains grounded in his role as a husband and father.

“He always puts my daughters and myself first,” Kelly said. “If we all asked him to retire, he would do it. He shows up for us.”

That love, respect, and understanding were reflected in the “Most Valuable Dad” surprise. While Stafford left NFL Honors with the league’s most prestigious individual award and confirmation that he intends to return next season, the MVD tribute served as a reminder that his greatest accomplishments may not appear in any record book.