It’s “yours, mine” at the start of the season between Christian McCaffrey and Tua Tagovailoa.
As in week 2, CMC dethroned the Dolphins quarterback after a four-touchdown performance against the Cardinals. For his part, Tua had his first complicated game of the season against the Bills. Patrick Mahomes didn’t have an easy week either, but he knew how to get the victory and that’s what an MVP does. As surprising as ever, Brock Purdy continues to play like a metronome and strengthens his place in the top 5 ahead of Josh Allen in ascending form.
1- Christian McCaffrey (+1) Running Back – San Francisco 49ers (4-0)
4 games – 459 yards at 5.7 yards per carry, 6 touchdowns – 18 receptions, 141 yards, 1 touchdown
Christian McCaffrey is emerging as one of the most impactful players in the NFL this season. His impressive start to 2023 puts him firmly in the conversation for MVP. With remarkable performances, he has become a vital part for the San Francisco 49ers. His 600 yards and 7 touchdowns in just four games demonstrate his dominance on the field. As the season progresses, Christian McCaffrey continues to prove that he is one of the best offensive players in the league, and his candidacy for MVP only grows stronger.
2- Tua Tagovailoa (-1) Quarterback – Miami Dolphins (3-1)
4 games – 1306 yards at 71.3% – 9 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 114.4 rating
Tua Tagovailoa has not said his last word. Against the Buffalo Bills, despite a bitter 48-20 defeat and a performance below his start to the season, he still threw for 282 yards and scored a touchdown, proving that he remains a major player on the field. The Dolphins, with a 3-1 record this season, can count on their quarterback to take them far. And if some doubt, his performances speak in his favor for the race for MVP. And with an upcoming clash against the moribund Giants, Tua has the perfect opportunity to find his cruising speed.
3- Patrick Mahomes (-) Quarterback – Kansas City Chiefs (3-1)
4 games – 1006 yards at 65.5% – 8 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, 92 rating
Patrick Mahomes had an eventful evening against the New York Jets. Despite a 17-point lead, the Chiefs had to fight hard to secure a 23-20 victory. Mahomes completed 18 of 30 passes for 203 yards, scoring one touchdown. He also set a record by becoming the fastest to reach 200 career touchdowns, surpassing the previous record held by Dan Marino. With the Chiefs at 3-1, Mahomes continues to position himself as a serious MVP candidate.
4- Brock Purdy (+1) Quarterback – San Francisco 49ers (4-0)
4 games – 1019 yards at 72.3% – 5 touchdowns, 115.1 rating
Brock Purdy challenges the skeptics. While some expected a regression from him, Purdy seems to be improving instead. Against the Cardinals, he displayed remarkable accuracy with 20 completions on 21 attempts for 283 yards, adding a passing touchdown and another rushing. His pass completion rate of 95.2% in this game is the best in 49ers history. Additionally, nearly half of his pass attempts resulted in a first down or touchdown, putting him at the top of the league in that category. With the 49ers at 4-0, Purdy strengthens his candidacy for MVP, proving he is more than just a product of the system. The next test? Facing a formidable Dallas Cowboys defense. But in San Francisco, confidence in Purdy does not waver.
5- Josh Allen – Quarterback – Buffalo Bills (3-1)
4 games – 1048 yards at 74.8% – 9 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, 106.3 rating
Josh Allen is in great shape. In the matchup against the Miami Dolphins, he shined, leading his team to a convincing 48-20 victory. Allen was decisive, completing short, efficient passes while demonstrating his ability to make spectacular plays. Since the Week 1 loss to the Jets, Allen has been exceptional. According to Pro Football Focus, he leads in total touchdowns and rating. The Bills have scored more than 30 points in every game since. With Allen full of confidence and a formidable Bills offense, the MVP race could well have a serious new contender.
Special mentions
Justin Herbert (QB, Chargers) – 1106 yards on 71% completions, 7 touchdowns, 1 interception, 106.3 rating
CJ Stroud (QB, Texans) – 1212 yards at 62.3% completions, 6 touchdowns, 100.6 rating
Puka Nacua (WR, Rams) – 501 yards at 12.8 yards/reception, 1 touchdown
Justin Jefferson (WR, Vikings) – 543 yards at 16.5 yards/reception, 3 touchdowns
Tyreek Hill (WR, Dolphins) – 470 yards at 16.8 yards/reception, 4 touchdowns
Keenan Allen (WR, Chargers) – 434 yards at 12.4 yards/reception, 3 touchdowns
D’Andre Swift (RB, Eagles) – 364 yards at 6.2 yards/carry, 2 touchdowns
TJ Watt (LB, Steelers) – 13 tackles, 6 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 recovered fumbles, 2 passes defended
Myles Garrett (DE, Browns) – 10 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble
