Sunday is a huge opportunity for Drake Maye (vs. Bills) and Matthew Stafford (vs. Lions) to make a statement in the MVP race, which still feels open. Is it a two-man race between these QBs? Who else is in the mix, in your opinion? How does this year’s MVP race differ from others we’ve seen recently?
The Athletic’s Jeff Howe: I’ve got Stafford in the lead for now, but Maye will sway me with a big stretch against the Bills and Ravens. Allen could still get involved, primarily because he’s got to play perfectly far too often to give the Bills a chance. Sam Darnold has a chance, too, if he can lead the Seahawks past the Rams next week.
Don’t rule out Jordan Love if the Packers finish strong. This year’s race is more wide open with new blood than past seasons. Last year was all about Allen and Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahomes ran away with it in 2023. There’s been a big-time flavor of the week element this season with Baker Mayfield, Jared Goff, Justin Herbert, Jones and Taylor entering the conversation earlier this season.