The race for the NFL's Most Valuable Player award is entering its final stretch as the 2024 season nears its conclusion. With only three weeks remaining, keen observers and ardent fans alike are watching the player performances and results with bated breath. The recent votes tallied from a panel of 17 NFL experts have painted a vivid picture of the competition and identified clear frontrunners for the coveted honor.
Josh Allen's Commanding Lead
Topping the list is Buffalo Bills’ star quarterback Josh Allen. Allen has amassed an impressive 61 points in the MVP race, clearly reflecting his standout performances throughout the season. Notably, Allen has also tied for the most total touchdowns among quarterbacks, boasting 37, a testament to his pivotal role in the Bills' offensive success. Out of the 17 ballots cast, Allen secured 13 first-place votes, solidifying his status as the favorite for this year's MVP. FanDuel supports this sentiment with Allen's odds at -900, underscoring his strong likelihood to clinch the award.
The Challengers: Barkley and Jackson
However, Allen's path to MVP isn't entirely unchallenged. Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants trails behind in second place with 46 points. Barkley's consistency and impactful play have not gone unnoticed, as he appeared on 15 of the 17 ballots. Despite the gap in points, his odds of +1800 suggest that some bettors see a potential upset in the cards, though it remains a long shot.
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens occupies the third spot with 37 points, including four first-place votes. Known for his dynamic and electrifying play style, Jackson remains a critical piece for the Ravens' aspirations this season. As noted by an observer, "If Jackson, the reigning MVP, can somehow steal an AFC North crown from the rival Pittsburgh Steelers, his stock might skyrocket." A division title could very well bolster his chances considerably, and FanDuel lists his odds at +650, reflecting his potential, albeit outside of first place.
Goff and Burrow: A Tight Contest
In a tie for fourth place are Jared Goff and Joe Burrow, both with 25 points. However, Goff edges slightly ahead given that he appeared on more ballots. Described by one expert as "another interesting takeaway," the marginal lead that Goff holds over Burrow could play a crucial role as the season wraps up. The close contest between these two quarterbacks adds an enticing subplot to the MVP race, showcasing the depth of talent in the league.
The Underestimate of Mahomes
Completing the top tier of contenders, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes rests in fifth place with 7 points. This year's standings reflect a surprising deviation for Mahomes, the former NFL MVP, as past performances have often placed him closer to the top. Regardless, his late-season efforts may still hold the potential to sway voters or at least reinforce his consistent excellence.
While the MVP race is nearing its climax, the final outcomes remain uncertain—and the ebb and flow of the NFL can alter standings in mere moments. Each passer and rusher vying for the title will undoubtedly use these final weeks to make their strongest case. Whether Josh Allen will finish what he started or one of his challengers will mount an electrifying comeback is a storyline that will captivate the football community until the very end.