There’s no shortage of viable candidates for the 2022 NFL MVP award as we approach Week 1 of the regular season. Given how wide open the league seems heading into this season, it gives the race for the league’s top individual honor even more intrigue considering how the award often falls — the quarterback for one of the favorites to win the Super Bowl by the regular season’s end.
2022 NFL MVP odds
(All odds from BetMGM.)
Top players to watch
QB Josh Allen, Bills
The Buffalo signal caller has become arguably the most dangerous NFL weapon in the league given his rocket arm and lethal legs. What could make him even more dangerous is if Allen can improve on his completion percentage (63.3) and interceptions (15) from last season. In 2020, he compiled a 69.2 percent completion percentage and only 10 interceptions. The MVP momentum is deserved given how well he played in the AFC Divisional playoff loss to Kansas City last season.
QB Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs
There’s no doubt Mahomes will linger atop the MVP odds to start every NFL season given his talent and playing history. The mystery entering the 2022 season surrounds his supporting cast and how well Mahomes can acclimate himself with the new weapons. Wideout Tyreek Hill now resides in Miami with the Dolphins. Yes, tight end Travis Kelce will still be a major force and Mecole Hardman is still in Kansas City. But Mahomes will be leaning on newbies like veterans JuJu Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling and rookie Skyy Moore.
QB Tom Brady, Buccaneers
How can you not equate MVP and GOAT? The heavy hitters in terms of teams in the NFC seem pretty slim entering the regular season. Brady, 45, will guide the NFC betting favorite to reach Super Bowl LVII so it makes sense that the quarterback would be a top-five MVP candidate. And it’s not like Brady is coming off a bad season. He only led the league in completions (485), attempts (719), yards (5,319) and touchdown passes (43) in 2021. I’d say that’s worth some 2022 NFL MVP pub.
QB Justin Herbert, Chargers
Here’s where the hot upstart train begins. There’s no doubt Herbert and the Chargers are the hot picks to win the MVP and Super Bowl, respectively, despite missing the postseason in 2021. The No. 6 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft undoubtedly possesses all the tools to be a top quarterback in the NFL. Plus, he threw for more than 5,000 yards last season with 38 TDs and 15 interceptions. Given his talent and the Los Angeles market, Herbert’s inclusion among the top four MVP candidates shouldn’t be a major surprise.
Rising player to watch
QB Russell Wilson, Broncos
If the Broncos climb into the AFC playoff hunt, there’s no question the Wilson for MVP train will catch momentum. Wilson should make Denver instantly better given their shaky quarterback play the past few seasons. But Wilson’s candidacy will rely heavily on the overall success of the Broncos. Wilson should produce big-time numbers. But if Denver remains in the bottom half of the AFC, will Wilson’s numbers make a sound?
Sleeper
QB Jalen Hurts, Eagles
The Eagles seemingly gained momentum to win the NFC East by the day with their improved roster combined with the attrition on the Cowboys’ roster. All of these points to Hurts becoming the center point of attention if Philadelphia rises to the top of the NFC East. He could pick up momentum like Carson Wentz did when the Eagles won the Super Bowl a couple of years ago. Hurts will play behind a healthier offensive line and along with new No. 1 receiver AJ Brown.
(Photo: Kevin Hoffman/Getty Images)
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