5 NFL MVP sleepers primed for monster years in the 2021 season
1. Alvin Kamara, RB, New Orleans Saints
Just like Christian McCaffrey who was listed above, Alvin Kamara is a do-it-all back who can bring value as both a rusher and a receiver. Kamara also has suffered injuries throughout his whole career. Kamara could be on pace for a breakout year, though.
With Drew Brees retired, the Saints are forced to turn to either Taysom Hill or Jameis Winston at quarterback. In addition to that, their star wide receiver Michael Thomas seems to have some animosity with the team over how his ankle injury has been handled in the media:
— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike) August 9, 2021
The Saints look a lot different than years past, but one thing remains the same: their best offensive weapon is in the backfield. Although Kamara has never eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing or receiving in a season, his skill set is undeniable. Part of why Kamara is listed here is because he has so much talent but has yet to explode statistically.
If Kamara is able to become the fourth player ever to have 1,000 rushing and 1,000 receiving yards in one season, then he certainly could be on the radar for the award. The Saints are not the contender they used to be, but Kamara could be the reason why they stay very competitive.
Next. 2021 NFL Power Rankings after Preseason Week 1. dark
Kamara will not only have to have his best season to date but one of the best running back seasons ever to win the award. It is rare that a running back wins MVP, but it has happened in the past, most recently in 2005 and 2006 when Shaun Alexander and LaDainian Tomlinson won the award back-to-back. Kamara could certainly shock many this year and not only keep the Saints in contention but also make a run at NFL MVP.