NFL Reveals October Players of the Month for the 2026 Season
The National Football League announced its Players of the Month for October on November 5, 2026, highlighting standout performances across both conferences after four weeks of heavy competition, Cards Wire reported. New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye and New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers headlined the offensive selections.
Drake Maye and Malik Nabers Claim Offensive Honors
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye captured the AFC Offensive Player of the Month award after rebounding from a slow start to the season. The 2024 third overall pick out of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill threw for 1,398 yards, 14 passing touchdowns, and three rushing touchdowns during October, posting a 122.2 passer rating. In the NFC, New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers secured offensive honors. The sixth overall pick in the 2024 draft out of LSU recorded 509 yards on 38 receptions and two receiving touchdowns last month.
Alex Singleton and Evan Williams Lead Defensive Selections
Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton earned AFC Defensive Player of the Month honors as his team climbed to a 6-2 record. Singleton tallied 68 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two sacks in October, bringing his league-leading individual tackle total to 49. In the NFC, Green Bay Packers safety Evan Williams captured the defensive award. The 111th overall pick in the 2024 draft out of Oregon registered 44 tackles, four passes defended, two interceptions, and one sack.
Drake Maye wins the #NFL’s AFC Offensive Player of the Month for the first time! More details here:https://t.co/2ToB8wZage
Special Teams Kickers Put Up Perfect October Records
Houston Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn secured AFC Special Teams Player of the Month after converting every kick last month. Fairbairn scored 43 points in October via 11 field goals, 10 extra points, and five conversions from beyond 50 yards. Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin claimed the NFC special teams award with a matching flawless month. McLaughlin contributed 42 points in October behind 10 field goals and 12 extra points.
Carnell Tate and Brandon Cisse Take Rookie Honors
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Carnell Tate won Offensive Rookie of the Month after catching 21 passes for 290 yards and one touchdown in October. Green Bay Packers cornerback Brandon Cisse earned Defensive Rookie of the Month recognition. Cisse recorded 21 tackles, seven passes defended, two tackles for loss, one interception, and one sack during his first professional season.
Frequently Asked Questions About the October Awards
How many total yards did Drake Maye record during October?
Drake Maye accumulated 1,398 passing yards during the month, alongside 14 passing touchdowns and three rushing touchdowns for the New England Patriots.
Which defensive player led the AFC in individual tackles for Denver?
Alex Singleton led the league in individual tackles with 49, adding 68 total tackles, five tackles for loss, and two sacks for the Broncos during October.
What was Carnell Tate’s draft position and college affiliation?
Carnell Tate was selected fourth overall out of Ohio State by the Tennessee Titans, where he currently leads the team in receiving yards.
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