NFL MVP Race Heats Up as Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Saquon Barkley Emerge as Top Contenders

With standout performances and varying team success, the MVP candidates face scrutiny over historical precedents and individual contributions.

Josh Allen is widely regarded as the MVP frontrunner, credited with carrying the Buffalo Bills to a 13-3 record despite a depleted roster and producing 41 total touchdowns.
Joe Burrow leads the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns but faces long odds for MVP due to the Bengals' 8-8 record and uncertain playoff status.
Saquon Barkley has rushed for over 2,000 yards this season, becoming only the ninth player in NFL history to achieve the feat, while also breaking franchise records for the Eagles.
Historical precedent shows that MVP winners typically come from playoff-bound teams, making Burrow's candidacy a rare and challenging case.
Lamar Jackson and other notable players, including Derrick Henry and Jared Goff, have also been recognized for their exceptional seasons, though Allen remains the likely favorite.