AFC Awards Lawrence, Simmons, and Little After Dominant Final Stretch
The end of an NFL season shows us who can really play when it counts. December and January are tough month mistakes cost more, every drive is crucial, and only a few players truly step up. This year, three AFC stars stood out: Trevor Lawrence, Jeffery Simmons, and Cam Little. Their play from Week 14 to Week 18 didn’t just help their teams, but it also helped their opponents.
More importantly, it shaped the playoff outlook and provided some of the season’s best highlights. On January 8, 2026, the NFL officially named Lawrence the AFC Offensive Player of the Month, Simmons the Defensive Player of the Month, and Little the Special Teams Player of the Month. They earned these spots by playing well and leading their teams right when the season was on the line.
Official Statements & Responses
Official Response
The league noted that these three players impacted games in very different ways. Officials made it clear these awards aren’t just about stats. They are about consistency and the ability to lift a team up during high-stakes moments.
The Jacksonville Jaguars credited Trevor Lawrence for running the offense with calm, accurate play. They noted his strong finish helped steady the ship during the playoff push. They called him the anchor of the offense, a role that was vital as Jacksonville dealt with injuries and roster changes.
As for Cam Little, the Jaguars called his kicking “historic and energizing.” They pointed to his perfect kicking streak and that massive 67‑yard field goal as moments that flipped momentum and got the crowd going.
The Tennessee Titans released a statement celebrating Jeffery Simmons. They called him the “heartbeat of the defense” and said his dominance in December and January kept the team in the fight. Coaches praised his leadership, toughness, and knack for blowing up plays in the backfield.
Expert Insights
Football analysts were all on the same page. Quarterback experts looked at Lawrence’s mix of efficiency and big plays, including 105 completions, 1,371 yards, and 17 total touchdowns, as proof he has settled into his franchise role. They mentioned his pocket presence, timing, and choices looked better than ever.
Defensive experts focused on Jeffery Simmons’ power from the interior line. His 26 tackles, 4.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles made him the only NFL player to hit those numbers in December and January. Analysts described his style as relentless, noting he forced offenses to change how they blocked.
Special teams gurus were just as impressed with Cam Little. They stressed that going 12‑for‑12 on field goals, 21‑for‑21 on extra points, and hitting a 67‑yarder, the second‑longest in history, is rare for a rookie. Many pointed out his form looked exactly the same whether he was kicking from the 25 or the 65.
Public Reaction
AFC fans were excited and proud. Jaguars fans saw Lawrence’s award as the sign they’ve been waiting for that they finally have their long-term quarterback. Titans fans cheered for Simmons as the physical and emotional rock of their defense. Meanwhile, Cam Little quickly became a favorite, with many calling him the most exciting kicker in the game.
Impact & What It Means
Immediate Impact
For Jacksonville, this is a big moment. Lawrence is the first Jaguars QB to win the AFC Offensive Player of the Month since Mark Brunell in 1996, breaking a drought of nearly 30 years. His play kept the Jaguars in the hunt and gave the offense a real rhythm.
Cam Little’s award proves Jacksonville’s special teams unit is one of the league’s most reliable. Being able to score from almost anywhere past midfield changes how opponents defend late in a half or a game.
For Tennessee, this confirms Simmons is the core of their defense. His work kept the Titans in games even when the offense stalled, and his leadership stabilized a unit that was dealing with injuries and ups and downs.
Broader Implications
These awards show how the AFC is changing. Lawrence’s improvement suggests Jacksonville is becoming a real contender for the long haul. Simmons’ power highlights Tennessee’s plan to build around a tough defensive identity. Little’s history-making accuracy gives the Jaguars a unique edge in tight matchups.
Related Developments
The accolades for Trevor Lawrence, Jeffery Simmons, and Cam Little represent more than individual success. They mark distinct historical milestones for their respective teams. For the Jaguars, Lawrence lands on a short list of franchise icons, becoming just the fifth player in team history to grab AFC Offensive Player of the Month honors.
He is the first quarterback to do so since Mark Brunell in December 1996. This award reflects the team’s progress in securing a reliable long-term quarterback after years of trying to fill the spot. On the defensive end, Simmons is only the second Titans defensive tackle to win the award since Albert Haynesworth in 2008, continuing Tennessee’s habit of relying on strong interior linemen.
He also joins Fletcher Cox as the only other Mississippi State defensive tackle to earn this recognition. Cam Little also made history for Jacksonville’s special teams, becoming the first Arkansas kicker to win the AFC Player of the Month and only the second Jaguars kicker ever, right after Brandon McManus in 2023. These wins show how fresh talent is changing the AFC and setting new standards for these franchises to build on.
What Happens Next
The Jaguars hope to ride Lawrence and Little’s hot streak as they head deeper into the AFC playoff mix. Tennessee will keep leaning on Simmons as the anchor of their defensive line. All three players go into the postseason with high expectations and the whole league watching.
FAQ SECTION
Q: Why were these players selected as AFC Players of the Month?
A: Their stats and game-winning plays from Week 14 to Week 18 were better than anyone else in the conference.
Q: Who is involved?
A: Trevor Lawrence (Jaguars QB), Jeffery Simmons (Titans DT), and Cam Little (Jaguars K).
Q: What made Cam Little’s performance historic?
A: He made a 67‑yard field goal, the second‑longest in NFL history, and didn’t miss a single kick.
Q: What are the next steps?
A: Each player heads into the postseason as a major contributor with high expectations.
Conclusion
Trevor Lawrence, Jeffery Simmons, and Cam Little didn’t just finish the season strong, as they defined the AFC’s final chapter. Their performances were dominant, timely, and essential to their teams’ success. As the postseason unfolds, their impact will continue to shape the AFC landscape.
