The Pride of Detroit community has officially wrapped up voting for the 2024 Detroit Lions season awards, recognizing the standout players, moments, and performances that made this year special. While the season ended in disappointment, it’s impossible to overlook how much progress the Lions made, reaching new heights and giving fans plenty to celebrate.
Lions MVP: Jared Goff
Quarterback Jared Goff was named the team’s Most Valuable Player, securing 51% of the vote. Goff played a pivotal role in leading the Lions to their first-ever NFC Championship victory, displaying poise, leadership, and consistency throughout the season. While Detroit’s run ended just short of a Super Bowl title, Goff’s performance cemented his status as the franchise quarterback moving forward.
Breakout Player of the Year: Jahmyr Gibbs
Jahmyr Gibbs took home two major awards, winning Breakout Player of the Year (41%) and Offensive Player of the Year (68%). The explosive running back turned into a game-changer for Detroit, delivering highlight-reel runs and proving himself as a versatile weapon in both the rushing and passing game. His growth throughout the season was a key reason the Lions’ offense remained one of the most dangerous in the league.
Defensive Player of the Year: Kerby Joseph
On the defensive side of the ball, Kerby Joseph claimed the Defensive Player of the Year title with a dominant 66% of the vote. Joseph’s ability to make clutch plays in key moments made him an invaluable part of Detroit’s secondary. His ball-hawking skills and hard-hitting style were crucial in the Lions’ deep postseason run.
Rookie of the Year: Terrion Arnold
First-round pick Terrion Arnold lived up to the hype and then some, winning Rookie of the Year with an overwhelming 86% of the vote. The young cornerback quickly became a defensive cornerstone, locking down receivers and making big plays when it mattered most. His strong debut season sets the stage for a bright future in Detroit’s secondary.
Coach of the Year: Dan Campbell
No surprises here—Dan Campbell was voted Coach of the Year (53%), further solidifying his place as the heart and soul of this Lions team. His leadership and aggressive coaching style helped Detroit reach the NFC Championship, proving that the culture he has built is here to stay. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn finished second in the voting (30%), recognized for his efforts in elevating the defense throughout the season.
Game of the Year: NFC Championship win over Vikings
The Lions’ historic Week 18 NFC Championship victory over the Vikings was named Game of the Year with 49% of the vote. This win represented a turning point for the franchise, securing their first conference title and sending them to the Super Bowl for the first time in team history.
Other top contenders for Game of the Year included the Sunday Night Football comeback win over the Texans (20%) and the Week 6 blowout of the Cowboys (16%). However, nothing could top the pure emotion of the Lions finally breaking through and claiming the NFC crown.
Special Teams Player of the Year: Jake Bates
Kicker Jake Bates ran away with Special Teams Player of the Year, earning 65% of the vote. His consistency and clutch kicking played a huge role in Detroit’s success, making him a fan favorite.
Play of the Year: ‘Stumblerooski’ Trick Play
In one of the most creative moments of the season, the Stumblerooski trick play, also known as the “stumblebum,” was voted Play of the Year (23%). This brilliantly designed misdirection play caught the defense off guard and showcased the Lions’ willingness to take risks.
The David Montgomery truck stick run over Devon Witherspoon tied for first with another 23% of the vote, highlighting just how electrifying the Lions’ offense was throughout the season.
Pride of Detroit Moment of the Year: Return of the PODcast
Beyond the field, The Return of the PODcast was named Moment of the Year (58%), showing how much the Lions fan community values in-depth coverage and analysis of their team.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The Lions’ 2024 season was one for the history books, but the team isn’t satisfied. With free agency and the NFL Draft approaching, Detroit has a chance to add even more talent and build on the success of this past year. The Lions’ core remains strong, and under Dan Campbell’s leadership, expectations will be sky-high for 2025.
As the team prepares for another deep playoff push, one thing is clear—this franchise is no longer just a feel-good story. The Detroit Lions are legitimate contenders, and they’re here to stay.
Celebrating the Best: 2024 Detroit Lions Award Winners Announced!
