With the 2024 NFL season in full swing, the race for MVP has narrowed, placing quarterbacks Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills and Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens as joint frontrunners. DraftKings currently has Allen and Jackson at +300, with strong performances boosting both players to the top of the MVP odds chart. Here’s a closer look at the current contenders, their odds, and why players like Jalen Hurts and Kyler Murray are rising quickly on the betting board.
Josh Allen’s Standout Performances Boost MVP Odds
Buffalo Bills’ quarterback Josh Allen has been electric this season. In the Bills’ recent 31-10 win over the Seahawks, Allen threw for 283 yards and added a touchdown, helping his MVP odds shift from +500 to +300. Allen has been instrumental in maintaining Buffalo’s high-octane offense, a key reason he now stands as one of the favorites for the MVP.
Allen’s versatility on the field has also made him a critical asset for Buffalo’s playoff push. His ability to both run and pass with equal success keeps the Bills unpredictable and is a primary reason he’s become a top contender in the MVP race this year.
Lamar Jackson Remains a Strong MVP Candidate
Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback Lamar Jackson has been equally impressive, maintaining his +300 odds over recent weeks. Although Baltimore fell short against Cleveland with a close 29-24 loss, Jackson threw for 289 yards and two touchdowns. Jackson’s combination of speed, precision, and ability to run the offense make him one of the NFL’s most explosive players.
This season, Jackson’s leadership and consistency have elevated the Ravens, keeping them competitive and Jackson a strong contender for MVP. His ongoing stellar performances keep him neck-and-neck with Allen at the top of the MVP odds list.
Patrick Mahomes Holds Steady at +600
Reigning Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes comes in at +600, holding his place in the MVP conversation. In the Chiefs’ 27-20 victory over the Raiders, Mahomes played a crucial role, displaying the leadership and playmaking skills that have come to define his career. Despite slipping from his previous odds of +475, Mahomes remains one of the top MVP candidates. If the Chiefs continue their winning ways, Mahomes’ odds could improve as the season progresses.
Jared Goff’s Consistent Play Keeps Him in the Hunt
Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions currently holds +800 odds, making him the fourth-strongest MVP candidate. Goff has had a stellar season, notably achieving a passer rating of 140 or higher in three consecutive games, a feat accomplished by only a few quarterbacks since the 1970 NFL merger. If the Lions can maintain a strong record, Goff’s consistent and resilient performances will likely keep him in the MVP race.
Jalen Hurts Surges Up the Oddsboard
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has seen a significant rise in his odds, moving from +2800 to +1500 after a recent win. Hurts has turned around a rocky start, elevating his play and leading the Eagles with impressive throws and game management. If Hurts continues to perform at a high level, he could become one of the biggest surprises in the MVP race.
Kyler Murray Gaining Momentum
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has also been climbing the oddsboard, with his current MVP odds at +1800. Murray’s recent performance in a 28-27 win over the Dolphins, where he threw for 307 yards and two touchdowns, was enough to shorten his MVP odds. If the Cardinals can string together a series of wins, Murray could continue to rise among the MVP contenders.
The Other Contenders: Stroud, Henry, Darnold, and Burrow
Several other players are also making a case for the MVP title:
- C.J. Stroud (Texans, +1800) has had a breakthrough season, leading the Texans with poised and mature play.
- Derrick Henry (Ravens, +2000) has been a standout rusher this year, and his physicality makes him one of the most impactful players in the league.
- Sam Darnold (Vikings, +2000) and Joe Burrow (Bengals, +2200) have also put up strong performances, keeping them in the conversation.
The list of MVP contenders has been diverse this season, with multiple quarterbacks, running backs, and a few new names all in the mix. As it stands, quarterbacks continue to dominate the race, with 16 of the last 18 MVP winners playing the QB position. This trend has created a highly competitive field, where consistency and impactful performances will likely determine who ultimately claims the prestigious MVP title.
Best Value Picks for MVP:
FOX Sports betting expert Jason McIntyre highlighted some of his best value picks for the MVP race:
- Jalen Hurts (+1500): Hurts has a favorable schedule and the addition of star running back Saquon Barkley to the offense has given him more opportunities to shine. If Hurts can keep up his momentum, he’s a solid pick.
- Jared Goff (+800): Goff has proven doubters wrong this season, guiding the Lions to an impressive start. If Detroit remains competitive, Goff could be a smart choice for MVP.
- Anthony Richardson (+3000): As a long-shot, the young Richardson has the potential to surprise with a favorable late-season schedule. A string of wins could bring him into contention.
The MVP race remains wide open, with strong performances week after week shaping the odds. Allen and Jackson currently lead, but with other quarterbacks like Mahomes, Hurts, and Murray making moves, the race for MVP promises excitement through the remainder of the season. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely as the top contenders vie for the league’s most coveted individual honor.
