In football, most know the unspoken rule: A quarterback almost always wins an MVP award. In fact, quarterbacks have won 16 of the last 17 MVP awards.
But now a new player is stealing the spotlight and could change this trend.
His name is Saquon Barkley.
Barkley’s MVP Chances: Can He Overcome The Quarterback Bias?
Barkley is shaking up the race for the 2024 NFL MVP and putting a renewed focus on the running back position. He has been the Eagles’ most consistent player and game changer, and as the league’s most versatile player, has become a threat to take the MVP away from the quarterback position.
In 11 games, he has already broken a career single-season rushing mark and is on track to reach the elusive 2,000 rushing yards club. At this pace, he may easily crush that mark and post-scoring numbers that have been historically enough for a running back to win an MVP award.
MVP voting isn’t a level playing field. The current betting favorite is Josh Allen.
He’s 14th in the league in passing yards and had led the Buffalo Bills to a 9-2 record without some of the talent he had in the past.
But will there be enough voters who will ignore the quarterback bias and instead recognize and reward Barkley’s great play, or will voters stay the course?
Top Contenders for NFL MVP 2024
QB, Josh Allen: Buffalo Bills
The Bills are atop the AFC, thanks in large part to Josh Allen’s awesome performances. Allen brings some impressive grades and also some leading statistical categories that qualify him for the MVP award.
RB, Philadelphia Eagles: Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley winning MVP isn’t normal for a player who isn’t a quarterback, but we can’t ignore that season that he’s having.
His numbers and presence have made a significant impact on the season and history books and he’s working himself into the MVP conversation with his play.
QB, Lamar Jackson: Baltimore Ravens
As a 2x NFL MVP, Lamar Jackson is a top-tier quarterback in the league. This season, many feel he’s in line for his second consecutive MVP with exceptional grades and leading in multiple statistical categories.
QB, Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow
The Bengals’ record doesn’t negate the fact that Burrow stands among the best quarterbacks in the past few years. With a 90.4 overall grade that ranks second among quarterbacks, Burrow is a deserving MVP candidate.
WR, Tyreek Hill: Miami Dolphins
Tyreek Hill might not be the MVP favorite but his amazing speed and ball skills make him exciting to watch. Coming from a track background, Hill adds something special to the game.
At FanDuel Sportsbook, Tyreek Hill player odds are +15000 to win the 2023-24 AP NFL MVP award, showing he’s a long shot but still worth recognizing for his contributions.
QB, Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert
His play on the field is still impressive. He’s been a steady player for the Chargers with good grades and solid late performances, and if he continues to lead the Chargers along, he can elevate himself into a strong MVP candidate.
QB, Jayden Daniels: Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels has been a revelation and a crucial part of the success of the Commanders as a rookie. Daniels has done enough with high grades and winning plays to make himself a player to watch, even if he won’t walk away with the MVP Award this season.
QB, Geno Smith: Seattle Seahawks
Geno Smith is putting together a nice season for the Seahawks, and he is worthy of recognition for his contributions. Smith posted high grades and led in some statistical categories, which puts him in the MVP conversation.
The Takeaway
Quarterbacks, in these instances, are exhibitions of great talent and have played a big role on their respective teams.
And whether it’s Barkley’s chance to become part of the Eagle’s history, Allen’s contribution to the Bills’ success, Jackson’s chance at a repeat trophy, Daniels’ role as a valuable rookie, or Smith’s captivating campaign with the Seahawks, their work has clearly put them into MVP contention.
With a few weeks left in the NFL season, players will begin to separate themselves in order to take home the coveted MVP title.
