As the 2024 NFL regular season nears its conclusion, the race for the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) is heating up. While familiar names like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are making strong cases, a surprising contender has emerged in Minnesota's Sam Darnold. Each player brings a unique story to the table, making this year’s MVP debate one of the most intriguing in recent memory.
Josh Allen: A Dual-Threat Dynamo
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen entered the season with lofty expectations, and he has delivered in spectacular fashion. Known for his cannon of an arm and bruising running style, Allen has been the centerpiece of a Bills team that’s vying for the top seed in the AFC. With over 3,500 passing yards and 26 touchdowns through the air, combined with another 500 yards and 11 scores on the ground, Allen has proven why he’s considered one of the most dynamic players in the league. His ability to take over games, whether with his legs or his arm, has kept Buffalo in the Super Bowl conversation and Allen firmly in the MVP spotlight.
Lamar Jackson: Back to His Best
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has reminded everyone why he was the unanimous MVP in 2019. After a few seasons plagued by injuries and inconsistent play, Jackson has returned to his electrifying form in 2024. With a more refined passing game and his trademark rushing dominance, Jackson has totaled nearly 4,000 passing yards and 39 touchdowns, with just 4 interceptions. Leading the Ravens to one of the best records in the league, Jackson’s ability to make jaw-dropping plays has thrilled fans and left defenders grasping at air. His resurgence is a testament to his resilience and the Ravens’ commitment to building around his unique skill set.
Sam Darnold: The Comeback Story
Perhaps the biggest surprise of the season is the resurgence of Sam Darnold with the Minnesota Vikings. Darnold was named QB1 after a season-ending injury to rookie JJ McCarthy in pre-season, and hasn't looked back since. With nearly 4,000 passing yards and over 30 touchdowns, Darnold has led the Vikings to a very impressive 13-2 record. His efficiency and decision-making have silenced critics and made him an unlikely MVP contender.
The 2024 MVP race is a thrilling clash of styles: Allen’s raw power, Jackson’s explosiveness, and Darnold’s redemption arc. With each player putting on weekly clinics, the award could go to any of them. As the season winds down, the race is far from over—and fans are in for an exhilarating finish.
