Since 1957, the Associated Press has awarded the NFL’s Most Valuable Player title to the league’s most outstanding player, a recognition that often goes to the season’s top-performing quarterback. This prestigious award highlights the player who has most impacted their team and excelled at the highest level, becoming a symbol of excellence in professional football.
As we head into the end of the 2024-25 NFL season, sportsbooks have opened the odds for this year’s MVP race, sparking excitement and debate over who will emerge as the league’s standout player. Here are the contenders.
Lamar Jackson, QB, Baltimore Ravens
Jackson has wasted no time making his case for a third MVP title. While the Ravens’ 0-2 start didn’t boost his candidacy, he’s been on fire ever since. In four consecutive wins, Jackson ranks fourth in completion percentage (70.3%), third in QBR (76.1), and second in yards per dropback (9.1). He’s thrown eight touchdowns to just one interception and rushed for 236 yards, the most among quarterbacks. In his last two games—victories over the Bengals and Commanders—Jackson accumulated 766 yards in passing and rushing.
It’s worth noting that Jackson has done all this against formidable opponents. His Week 1 performance against the reigning champion Chiefs was nearly heroic, as he came within inches of forcing overtime in the final moments. And against the Commanders, he posted 323 passing yards, well above a defense allowing just 199 yards on average.
Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
To be headed for lows in touchdown passes and QBR, along with a career-high in interceptions, yet still be regarded as a legitimate MVP contender speaks volumes about Mahomes’ quality as a player. His influence is evident, having led the Chiefs to a 5-0 start despite the offensive struggles the team is facing.
Eye-popping stats don’t drive Mahomes’ case for a third MVP. Currently, he ranks 16th in QBR (57.8), has thrown six interceptions (tied for second most), and sits 11th in passing yards per game (247.0). Yet, without him, where would Kansas City stand? The Chiefs’ roster was already under scrutiny, now even more so with key injuries to receiver Rashee Rice (knee) and running back Isiah Pacheco (fibula). Now out for the season, Rice was the only Chief among the NFL’s top 50 in receiving yards.
Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
It’s easy to assume it’s normal for rookies to enter the MVP conversation—especially with it happening for a second straight season—but this remains a rarity. “Rare” is the best word to describe what Daniels accomplishes in Washington.
Daniels has been their driving force, with the Commanders at 4-2 and leading the NFC East. He leads the NFL in completion percentage (75.3%), an impressive stat on its own, but his aggressive play truly stands out. Ranking fourth in yards per attempt (8.5), Daniels shows the offense isn’t being simplified for his inexperience; rather, he’s thriving while taking big shots downfield.
C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans
Stroud made waves last season as a rookie when he earned MVP votes. While some of his numbers this year aren’t quite as flashy—he’s slightly down in yards per game and yards per attempt—he’s making crucial strides. His completion rate has jumped by over four points to 68.3%, and he’s on track for 28 touchdown passes, an improvement from the 23 he posted last season.
More importantly, the Texans are off to a strong 5-1 start, with Stroud emerging as the undeniable leader of a team now viewed as a legitimate Super Bowl contender. A few challenges, however, could hinder Stroud’s season. His interception rate is trending; he’s thrown four picks so far, compared to five all last year. Plus, pass protection remains a concern, with Stroud projected to face 45 sacks this season, up from the 38 he endured in 2023.
Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills
In many ways, Allen is shaping up to have his best season yet. His league-leading QBR is a career-high, and he currently boasts the best touchdown-to-interception ratio in the NFL. The dramatic drop in interceptions highlights Allen’s growth, particularly after he threw a career-high 18 picks last season. Remarkably, Allen is achieving this despite significant roster changes.
His former go-to target, Stefon Diggs, is now catching passes from Stroud in Houston, and while the Bills recently acquired star WR Amari Cooper to support Allen, he’s still leading an offense without a strong running game. Yet, advanced metrics place the Bills among the NFL’s top offenses—ranking fourth in offensive expected points added (44.57)—underscoring Allen’s crucial role in their success. With Josh Allen player odds reflecting his impressive performance, he remains a top contender in the MVP race.
Final Words
As the 2024-25 NFL season climaxes, the race for the Most Valuable Player award is heating up, showcasing the exceptional talents of some of the league’s top quarterbacks. As we look forward to the season’s final weeks, the anticipation surrounding who will ultimately be crowned the MVP is palpable. Each candidate brings unique stories and achievements, making the competition fierce and the discussions lively. With the stakes so high, the excitement of the MVP race is sure to keep fans engaged until the very end.
