As the NFL regular season came to a close, the anticipation surrounding the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is reaching its zenith.
This prestigious accolade, announced just days before the Super Bowl, often reflects the standout performances of the league’s brightest stars.
While this year’s MVP recipientseems all but certain, it’s worth delving into the contenders who have left an indelible mark on the gridiron.
Let’s explore the frontrunners for the 2023 MVP and what sets them apart.
Lemar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens
The man who stands head and shoulders above the rest in the MVP race is Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback Lamar Jackson.
The 2016 Heisman Trophy winner and 2019 MVP has showcased his brilliance throughout the season, throwing for 3,678 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Jackson’s dual-threat ability is a game-changer, evident in his 821 rushing yards and five additional touchdowns.
The Ravens, who are the second favourites in the Super Bowl betting odds, securing the top spot in the American Football Conference(AFC) is a testament to Jackson’s leadership.
A defining moment came in the 56-19 blowout win over the Dolphins, where he threw for 321 yards and five touchdowns — solidifying his MVP candidacy for a second time.
Dak Prescott – Dallas Cowboys
While Jackson is the runaway favourite, Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys has had a stellar season that cannot be overlooked.
The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback has thrown for an impressive 4,516yards, leading the league with 36 touchdowns.
Prescott’s contributions were pivotal in ‘America’s Team’ finishing second in the National Football Conference(NFC), setting the stage for a playoff run.
Despite being the second favourite behind Jackson, Prescott’s remarkable performances have captured the attention of fans and pundits alike.
Can he produce some more magic in the postseason that could see the Cowboys win their first Super Bowl since 1995?
Brock Purdy – San Francisco 49ers
He might be a distant third in the betting for the MVP title, with odds of 25/1, but San Francisco 49ers QB Brock Purdy has been a revelation this season.
Dubbed ‘Mr. Irrelevant’ due to being the final pick of the 2022 draft, Purdy has been nothing short of relevant this campaign.
Second in the league for passing yards with 4,280 and boasting an impressive 31 touchdown passes, Purdy’s contributions have been integral to the 49ers’ success.
If San Francisco is to prevail on their status as favourites in the American Football odds and lift the Lombardi Trophy at the Allegiant Stadium on February 11, then Purdy’s underdog story could earn him the recognition he deserves.
As we enter the postseason, the MVP race appeared to be concluded well before the curtain fell on the NFL regular season.
Jackson’s performances, combined with his dynamic style of play, make him the standout candidate amongst pundits and fans alike.
However, Prescott’s remarkable season and Purdy’s underdog story add layers of excitement to the race.
The announcement just days before the Super Bowl will undoubtedly be a moment of celebration for the MVP winner, but until then, fans will eagerly await the culmination of an unforgettable NFL season.
