Top 5 Cowboys Finalists to Watch at NFL Honors

The NFL Honors pays tribute to standout players and legends, showcasing the league’s finest talent. This year’s event will air at 8 p.m. CT on NBC and Peacock. The Dallas Cowboys will prominently feature multiple finalists, particularly notable for their accomplishments both on and off the field.

Hall of Fame Finalists

Among the most anticipated highlights are the Hall of Fame candidates. The 2026 class has narrowed down from over 100 modern-era nominees to 15 finalists. Jason Witten, a first-time contender, and Darren Woodson, a veteran finalist, both represent the Cowboys.

• Jason Witten: All-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and games played for the Cowboys.
• Darren Woodson: All-time leading tackler for the franchise, has been a finalist for four consecutive years.

Witten aims to become just the second player in history to gain first-ballot Hall of Fame status in recent times, while Woodson, retired since 2003, hopes this year may finally be his moment of recognition.

Walter Payton Man of the Year Award

Another major highlight includes Solomon Thomas, nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. This honor recognizes athletes who excel in community service and philanthropy.

• Thomas is in his inaugural season with the Cowboys.
• This is his fourth nomination overall and he was recently named the Cowboys’ nominee for the 2025-26 season.

If he wins, Thomas would become the fifth Cowboy to receive this esteemed honor, joining legends like Dak Prescott and Jason Witten.

Comeback Player of the Year

Quarterback Dak Prescott is also a finalist for the Comeback Player of the Year Award. After struggling last season with injuries, Prescott returned to lead the Cowboys in the 2025 campaign.

• Prescott threw for 4,552 yards, marking his second-highest career total.
• He led the NFL in passing attempts with 408.
• The Cowboys finished with seven wins, falling short of playoff contention.

Alongside Prescott in contention for the award are notable players such as Stefon Diggs and Christian McCaffrey, with the latter being viewed as the leading candidate.

Salute to Service Award

The NFL’s 15th annual Salute to Service Award recognizes players dedicated to honoring military personnel. Tight end Jake Ferguson is a finalist this year.

• Ferguson expressed his gratitude for being recognized and emphasized the importance of honoring veterans.
• He aims to amplify core values associated with military service through his platform.

He shares the finalist stage with other distinguished nominees, including Aaron Jones and Christian McCaffrey.

As the NFL Honors unfolds, the focus on the Cowboys’ finalists demonstrates the team’s significant influence in both football legacy and community engagement.