The NFL has had an exciting season so far through 13 weeks. Lots of unexpected contenders have come to light and many superstars have finally broken out. Players are looking to win the illustrious award of Most Valuable Player (MVP). To win MVP, there are many elements such as team success, individual success, and the situation the player is in such as coaching and personnel. Especially this year, many unexpected players are in the MVP race through week 13. Here’s a list of who is highest in the race as of right now:
5. Dak Prescott would come in fifth place in the MVP standings. Prescott has led the Cowboys to 3 straight wins including one on Thanksgiving over last year’s AFC Champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. While Prescott has had some help from star receivers George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb, this offense wouldn’t be able to function without Prescott. If he can lead the Cowboys to a playoff spot, Prescott will for sure be in the MVP race.
4. Jaxon Smith-Njigba would come in fourth place in the MVP standings. JSN has already broken the Seattle Seahawks franchise record for receiving yards in a season with 1,336 yards in only 12 games according to Pro Football Reference. Something that goes under the radar is his connection with Sam Darnold. Darnold had a Pro Bowl season with the Minnesota Vikings last year, but has taken another leap since joining the Seahawks. New offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has been a huge piece for the JSN breakout since coming over from the New Orleans Saints. Since JSN is a receiver, it will be hard for him to win MVP which is why he comes in fifth.
3. Another skill position player has made the list which is Indianapolis Colts’ superstar running back Jonathan Taylor. Last year Taylor’s production was hindered due to having Anthony Richardson at quarterback. However, this year the Colts decided to start failed New York Giants’ quarterback, Daniel Jones. Jones has provided a needed spark to this Colts offense and has opened up the run game for Taylor. Taylor is having one of the greatest running back seasons ever and will most likely win Offensive Player of the Year.
2. Second place is Patriots second year prodigy Drake Maye. The kid out of UNC has taken a major leap this year. Since getting a brand new coaching staff and much improved personnel, he’s done everything needed to make sure the Patriots are 11-2. While he has slowed down a tad bit, the production is still there. Maye is first in passing yards this season and adds to the running game as well.
1. While Maye has been amazing this year he hasn’t been quite as good as Superbowl champion Matthew Stafford. Stafford has had great years in the past, but nothing quite like this. He’s first in the NFL in passing touchdowns with 30, while only throwing 4 interceptions (Team Rankings). The experienced veteran has kept the ball out of harm’s way and has led his Rams team to a 9-3 record and himself to a potential MVP award.
MVP is the most illustrious award the NFL has, and these players have put themselves in prime position to win it.