Despite doubts and questions, Jalen Hurts confirms his last season by returning to the Top 5 of the MVP Race!
For the first time this season, Lamar Jackson seizes the throne in front of Jalen Hurts. Once again much less impressive against a big team, Tua Tagovailoa fell to third position in front of Christian McCaffrey who was able to take advantage of the bye week of the 49ers this week. To close the ranking, a well-known figure takes place in the person of Patrick Mahomes who continues to carry the Chiefs on his shoulders.
1- Lamar Jackson (+1) Quarterback – Baltimore Ravens (7-2)
9 games – 1954 yards at 71.5% – 9 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 100.8 rating
Lamar Jackson is having his most successful season since his MVP title in 2019. With passing accuracy that borders on excellence at 71.5% and an ability to tear apart opposing defenses, particularly in play action where he prances at the top of the league, Jackson is much more than just a runner.
But it’s when he sets off with ball in hand that Jackson thrills the stadiums. Averaging nearly 49 rushing yards per game, he is not only the most prolific rushing quarterback, but also the master of third down conversions, with explosive runs that leave defenses speechless.
However, Jackson also knows how to play it safe, with only three interceptions to his credit compared to eight for his direct competitor, Jalen Hurts. His ability to dodge sacks and secure the ball puts him at the top of the list for the MVP award. As the season progresses, the question remains: Can Jackson maintain this hellish pace and stay healthy to lead the Ravens to victory? If the answer is yes, he could well be the last man standing in this rat race.
2- Jalen Hurts – Quarterback – Philadelphia Eagles (8-1)
9 games – 2347 yards at 68.9% – 15 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, 97 rating
Jalen Hurts is the epitome of what an MVP should be. Despite a scare against the Cowboys, where he had to leave the field momentarily, he returned to lead the Eagles to victory with two passing touchdowns and one on the ground. His progress as a passer is undeniable, with an accuracy of 68.9% which exceeds expectations.
Jalen Hurts is a magician in his pocket, especially thanks to his legs which make the difference. That gives him 39 first downs this season. Interceptions are his Achilles heel, with eight already mid-season. We can qualify their impact since they all arrived when the Eagles were leading. However, he remains a dazzling player and a pillar for the Eagles, even if he does not (yet?) reach the top of the MVP race.
3- Tua Tagovailoa (-2) Quarterback – Miami Dolphins (6-3)
9 games – 2609 yards at 69.5% – 19 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, 106.4 rating
Tua Tagovailoa appears to be slipping away from the MVP race this season, despite his undeniable talent and the brilliance of the Dolphins’ offense. Facing high-caliber opponents like the Bills, the Eagles and the Chiefs, Tua was unable to impose his game, with a modest average of 204.5 passing yards against Philadelphia and Kansas City.
With a formidable end to the season against the Cowboys, Ravens and Bills, and without the climatic advantage of Miami’s humidity, Tagovailoa will have to exceed expectations in these decisive confrontations to claim the title of MVP. So far his performances in major events have not been enough to convince that he could take on this role.
4- Christian McCaffrey (-) Running Back – San Francisco 49ers (5-3)
8 games – 652 yards at 4.8 yards per carry, 9 touchdowns – 32 receptions, 292 yards, 4 touchdowns
Christian McCaffrey and the 49ers were off this week. Status quo therefore for the runner.
5- Patrick Mahomes – Quarterback – Kansas City Chiefs (7-2)
9 games – 2442 yards at 68.6% – 17 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, 96.7 rating
Patrick Mahomes remains an essential pillar for the Chiefs, navigating brilliantly despite a less dominant season than the previous one. Without the constant support of Travis Kelce, Mahomes had to adapt, showing an impressive ability to improvise under pressure. His decisive runs and time management in the pocket demonstrate his agility and playing intelligence.
The Chiefs’ inconsistent performance this season has exposed some flaws, even in Mahomes’ game. Although he continues to demonstrate why he is considered one of the best, these irregularities could weigh in the balance for the MVP title.
Special mentions
Jared Goff (QB, Lions) – 2,174 yards on 68.3% completions, 12 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 96.4 rating
Brock Purdy (QB, 49ers) – 2,033 yards at 68.3% completions, 12 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 105.4 rating
CJ Stroud (QB, Texans) – 2,270 yards at 62% completions, 14 touchdowns, 1 interception, 94.3 rating
AJ Brown (WR, Eagles) – 1005 yards at 15 yards/reception, 6 touchdowns
Tyreek Hill (WR, Dolphins) – 1076 yards at 15.6 yards/reception, 8 touchdowns
Keenan Allen (WR, Chargers) – 720 yards at 11.6 yards/reception, 4 touchdowns
D’Andre Swift (RB, Eagles) – 614 yards at 4.5 yards/carry, 3 touchdowns
Myles Garrett (DE, Browns) – 25 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 1 fumble covered, 1 pass defended
TJ Watt (LB, Steelers) – 22 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 3 recovered fumbles, 1 interception, 6 passes defended
