The 2025 NFL MVP race feels wide open. Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen are the top two favorites after winning the award the past two seasons, but let’s take a look at the other top contenders and best value bets behind them. From rising stars to proven veterans, the field is packed with legitimate options who could take home the league’s highest individual honor.
Jayden Daniels (+850)
Jayden Daniels has quickly become one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the league. After a stellar rookie season with over 4,000 total yards and 32 touchdowns, he’s poised for an even bigger sophomore campaign. Washington has built their offense around his dual-threat ability, and Daniels’ mix of accuracy and mobility makes him one of the toughest matchups in the league. If the Commanders stay competitive, he’ll be firmly in the MVP conversation.
Joe Burrow (+600)
Burrow remains one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the NFL when healthy. After a terrific 2024 season, he heads into 2025 playing his best football yet. His chemistry with Ja’Marr Chase is elite, and with Tee Higgins on the other side, Cincinnati’s offense remains dangerous. Burrow’s leadership and control on the field give him an edge voters appreciate. If the Bengals contend in a loaded AFC North, Burrow will be right in the thick of the MVP race.
Patrick Mahomes (+600)
You can never count out Mahomes. He posted another efficient season in 2024 with over 4,200 passing yards and 30 touchdowns, leading the Chiefs to yet another deep playoff run. While the offense hasn’t been as explosive lately, Mahomes continues to elevate everyone around him. With Xavier Worthy joining the receiving corps and Rashee Rice expected to take a leap, Mahomes has the tools to make another MVP run.
Jalen Hurts (+2000)
Hurts is one of the league’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks. He posted more than 3,800 passing yards and 700 rushing yards in 2024, along with 36 total touchdowns. If he cuts back on turnovers and sharpens his accuracy, there’s massive upside here. The Eagles are still a top-tier team when healthy, and if Hurts gets hot, +2000 could look like a bargain.
Justin Herbert (+2000)
Herbert enters 2025 poised for a breakthrough. He quietly put up over 4,400 passing yards last season despite injuries, and the Chargers have reloaded around him. With more protection and weapons, his production could soar. If Los Angeles turns talent into wins, Herbert becomes a serious MVP threat at great value.
Honorable Mentions
C.J. Stroud (+2500)
Stroud is entering just his third year, but already looks like a seasoned veteran. After a standout rookie season, he followed up with nearly 4,500 yards and another playoff trip for the Texans. His calm under pressure and clean mechanics give him a high floor, and Houston’s front office has continued to put strong talent around him. If he takes another leap, these odds could shrink quickly.
Baker Mayfield (+2500)
Mayfield is a true longshot, but his 2024 numbers include over 4,100 passing yards and a playoff berth. He has rebuilt his career in Tampa and has the trust of the locker room. With Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and rookie Emeka Egbuka around him, the Bucs have sneaky upside. If Tampa contends again, Mayfield’s narrative could push him into the conversation.
Parting Shot
This year’s MVP race feels as open as any in recent memory. Jackson and Allen are safe bets, but there’s real value in looking at the next tier. MVP winners usually follow a pattern: elite production, team success, and a storyline that catches fire. All the players listed here check at least one or two of those boxes already and it’s only July.
If you’re looking to lock in a futures bet, this is the time to find value before preseason hype, injuries, or roster movement start to shift the market.
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