As the 2024 NFL season enters its final stages with only three weeks left, the race for the Most Valuable Player award is heating up. A panel of 17 NFL experts recently shared their insights on the frontrunners in this year's MVP competition, and the results have provided a compelling narrative.
Leading the Pack: Josh Allen
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is currently the favorite to clinch the MVP title, amassing an impressive 61 points in the voting tally. Allen has captured 13 first-place votes, a testament to a season filled with remarkable performances. His total number of touchdowns, 37, ties him for the highest among quarterbacks this season, underscoring his versatile offensive capabilities.
The betting odds reflect this dominance. According to FanDuel, Allen's odds of taking home the MVP honor stand at a formidable -900, solidifying his status as the leading contender in the eyes of both experts and bookmakers.
Chasing the Leader: Saquon Barkley
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley claims the second spot in the MVP race with a total of 46 points. Despite falling behind Allen, Barkley's performance has captured the attention of voters, appearing on 15 out of the 17 ballots. FanDuel places Barkley’s odds at +1800, slightly undermining his strong presence in the voting arena but still recognizing his impact this season.
The Dark Horse: Lamar Jackson
In third place, Baltimore Ravens' quarterback Lamar Jackson garnered 37 points. Unlike Barkley, Jackson received four first-place votes, demonstrating the belief of some experts in his game-changing potential. One observer noted, "If Jackson, the reigning MVP, can somehow steal an AFC North crown from the rival Pittsburgh Steelers, his stock might skyrocket." Jackson's efforts and contributions have not gone unnoticed, with his odds listed at +650 by FanDuel, indicating a competitive stance in the market.
Middle of the Pack: Goff, Burrow, and Mahomes
Further adding depth to the MVP conversation are Jared Goff and Joe Burrow, both tied with 25 points. However, the distinction lies in their ballot appearances, with Goff's name appearing on more of them. One expert remarked on this curious outcome: "Another interesting takeaway: While Burrow and Goff had an equal number of points, the latter appeared on more ballots." This subtle differentiation might hint at Goff’s broader acceptance among voters.
Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes rounds out the top five with 7 points. Despite his lower standing in personal accolades, Mahomes’ consistent performance ensures he's never entirely out of any conversation.
Beyond the Numbers
Also noteworthy is the position of Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts, whom FanDuel holds in higher regard than both Burrow and Green Bay Packers’ Jordan Love. Although specific points are not mentioned, this assessment highlights the bookmaker's acknowledgment of Hurts' potential and ongoing contributions to his team.
As the season draws to a close, the MVP race remains an enthralling subplot in the NFL narrative. With key fixtures on the horizon, each game could redefine the outlook. Should Jackson propel his team to divisional success, his odds might mirror the promise seen by a few experts. On the other hand, Allen's steady hand could maintain its lead, ensuring his supremacy as the season's preferred contender for the coveted MVP accolade.