Sports. Honestly. Since 2011

NFL MVP Race

NFL MVP Race: Top Five Candidates Through Week 14

Editors note: this article is outdated. Follow the link for the latest updates in the NFL MVP race
With only four weeks left in the regular season, the NFL MVP race is starting to look like a clearer picture. Two players have emerged as frontrunners, but there are a few others that could stand a chance with insane finishes to the season.

NFL MVP Race Entering Week 15

1. Jalen Hurts

For the first time since this column debuted, there is a new leader atop this list. Jalen Hurts has played good football throughout the season, but his incredible play in the past few weeks has made him the MVP frontrunner. In Week 14’s slaughter of the New York Giants, Hurts completed 21 of his 31 passing attempts for 217 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions while adding another 144 yards and a score on the ground. He could have easily had more if the game hadn’t gotten out of hand, as Hurts continues to play at an unstoppable level.

2. Patrick Mahomes

Week 15 was more of the same from Mahomes, as the quarterback played yet another really good game that wasn’t quite great. This was one of his more volatile performances of the season, as the former MVP had his usual magic, but also threw three interceptions. Still, at the end of the day, he did enough to drop 34 points on one of the best defenses in football, and that’s always going to be an impressive feat.

READ MORE: Chiefs Running Back Breakdown

3. Josh Allen

Hurts and Mahomes are the only serious contenders in the NFL MVP race, but that doesn’t mean Josh Allen hasn’t had a great season in his own right. Week 14 was definitely not Allen’s most impressive day at the office, as the Bills quarterback completed 16 of his 27 passing attempts for just 147 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. He did, however, add another 47 yards and a touchdown on the ground while leading his team to a victory against a tough division rival. While it might be too late for him to win MVP, Allen remains one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, and he should guide the Bills to a deep playoff run.

4. Joe Burrow

Joe Burrow beat the Browns! The former first-overall pick defeated his division rivals in style, completing 18 of his 33 attempts for 239 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception in route to a comfortable 23-10 victory. After a slow start, Burrow continues to prove that his 2021 season was no fluke. Much like Allen, it’s hard to see him closing the gap on Hurts and Mahomes with only four weeks left in the regular season, but he should be a regular on this list for years to come.

5. Tua Tagovailoa

Earning the final spot on this list, Tua Tagovailoa is coming off consecutive ugly performances against the 49ers and Chargers, respectively. On Sunday Night Football, Tagovailoa completed just 10 of his 28 passes for 145 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions in a 23-17 loss. Tagovailoa might not stand a realistic shot at the MVP, but he still deserves credit for making a massive leap this year. It’s safe to say the Dolphins won’t be pursuing Tom Brady this offseason.

About David Latham, Managing Editor

With LWOS since 2017, and as Managing Editor for NFL content at Last Word On Sports since 2021, David Latham stands as an authority in professional football analysis. With an intricate understanding of the league, Latham has cultivated exceptional expertise in NFL Fantasy Football, offering astute insights that empower enthusiasts and seasoned players alike. His keen eye for detail and comprehensive knowledge also position him as a trusted source for breaking news and rumors, consistently delivering timely and accurate information. Latham’s contributions are invaluable for readers seeking strategic fantasy league decisions to understanding the impact of league-wide developments. His commitment to factual reporting and insightful commentary has cemented his reputation as a reliable voice in the NFL media landscape.

Stay in the Game

Get the latest sports news and analysis delivered to your inbox.

Share This Article