Week 7 of the NFL season is a crucial point in the race for the Most Valuable Player award. While the first few weeks may have seen some players put up impressive numbers, it is now that the true contenders for the MVP title begin to emerge. As defenses adjust and the grind of the season takes its toll, only the truly elite performers are able to maintain their level of play and prove their value extends beyond individual statistics. This is the time when MVP conversations start to carry real weight.
One person who knows all about the MVP race is former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb. With a career spanning over a decade, McNabb was a six-time Pro Bowler and led the Philadelphia Eagles to five NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl appearance. He knows what it takes to be an MVP and recently revealed his top five candidates for this year’s award.
At the top of McNabb’s list is Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson. Wilson has been nothing short of spectacular this season, leading the Seahawks to a 5-1 record and throwing for 1,502 yards and 19 touchdowns with only three interceptions. He has been the driving force behind the Seahawks’ success and has shown incredible consistency week after week. Wilson’s ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and has solidified his spot as a top MVP candidate.
Next on McNabb’s list is Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Despite a slow start to the season, Rodgers has bounced back in a big way and has the Packers sitting at 5-1. He has thrown for 1,590 yards and 13 touchdowns with only two interceptions. What sets Rodgers apart is his ability to make the players around him better. He has a knack for finding the open receiver and making the right decisions under pressure. With Rodgers at the helm, the Packers are always a threat to win any game.
McNabb’s third pick is Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The reigning MVP has picked up right where he left off last season, throwing for 2,104 yards and 14 touchdowns with only one interception. Mahomes’ arm talent is unmatched, and he has the ability to make throws that leave fans and analysts in awe. He has also shown great poise and leadership, leading the Chiefs to a 5-2 record despite facing some tough opponents. Mahomes is undoubtedly one of the top contenders for the MVP award this season.
Coming in at number four on McNabb’s list is Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. After a breakout season last year, Jackson has continued to impress and has the Ravens sitting at 5-1. He has thrown for 1,135 yards and 10 touchdowns with only two interceptions, but it’s his ability to make plays with his legs that sets him apart. Jackson is a dual-threat quarterback who can beat defenses with his arm and his speed. He has shown tremendous growth as a passer and has solidified his spot as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
Rounding out McNabb’s top five is Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry. While quarterbacks often dominate the MVP conversation, Henry has been a force to be reckoned with this season. He has rushed for 663 yards and seven touchdowns, leading the Titans to a 5-1 record. Henry’s combination of size, speed, and power make him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he has proven to be the backbone of the Titans’ offense. He may not be a traditional MVP candidate, but Henry’s impact on the field cannot be ignored.
As the season progresses, these five players will continue to make their case for the MVP award. But what sets them apart from the rest of the pack is their consistency and ability to perform at a high level week after week. They have proven that their value extends beyond individual statistics and that they are true leaders for their respective teams.
In the end, only one player will be named the Most Valuable Player of the 2020 NFL season. But for now, it’s clear that these five players are the front-runners for the award. As McNabb said, “The early weeks often deceive, but the truly elite performers maintain their rhythm through adversity.” These players have shown that they are truly elite and are deserving of being in the MVP conversation. It will be exciting to see how the rest of the season unfolds and who ultimately takes home the coveted MVP title.
