Advancing to the NFL playoffs is a difficult task for any coaching staff. Navigating through regular season schedules and play-in scenarios can become exhausting in addition to other responsibilities. Relying on X-Factor players to perform on the field lifts a burden from the staff and creates confidence in the locker room. Throughout the regular season, fans gravitate towards athletes who meet expectations – giving them the title of NFL MVP.
As we enter Week 12, here are a few players I believe should be considered for MVP of the 2022 season.
NFL MVP Candidate #5 RB: Saquon Barkley, RB, Giants
Definition: Dynamic Playmaker
Returning to the gridiron motivated New York’s running back through an extensive offseason. Injuries in the previous season limited Saquon Barkley’s time on the field – causing fans to doubt his explosiveness entering the new campaign. An opportunity to reassert his dominance has served the Giants well this season. Brian Daboll is 7-3 in his first season with the G-Men and wouldn’t experience the same success without No.26.
Barkley ranks second in rushing yards (953) and yards per game (95.3 )- serving as the primary source of production for the Giants. With Barkley in the backfield, Brian Daboll might see a playoff berth in his first year leading a team.
NFL MVP Candidate #4: QB Jalen Hurts, Eagles
Definition: Offensive Anchor
It’s hard taking the reigns at quarterback, especially in Philadelphia. Legends like Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick, and Randle Cunningham brought life to the city of brotherly love, and now Jalen Hurts is doing the same. No.1 found his groove this season, after a tough start to his career. In 2021, Hurts finished the season with 26 total touchdowns and nine interceptions. Philadelphia finished the season 9-8 – desiring more from their quarterback.
Jalen answered the request, tormenting opposing defenses in the new campaign – leading the Eagles to their best start in years. Hurts is ranked fourth in quarterback rating (106.5) and second in yards per passing attempt (8.3). His 23 total touchdowns include eight on the ground – ranking him fourth among active rushers. Philadelphia will enter the playoffs with confidence due to Hurts’ performance this season but will need their quarterback to remain consistent during the long haul.
NFL MVP Candidate #3: Travis Kelce, TE, Chiefs
Definition: Patrick Mahomes’ Secret to Success
Finding open targets is easy for Patrick Mahomes, and it feels like his tight end is always unattended. The connection between No.15 and No.85 torments defensive coordinators and continues to carry the Chiefs to victories. His versatility creates mismatches – resulting in more touchdowns. Kelce’s production this season is enough to be considered an MVP worthy.
He ranks first in receiving touchdowns (11) and sixth in receiving yards (855). Earning yards after the catch helps Kelce add to his receiving total – averaging more than 10 yards per reception in eight games this season. Without Tyreek Hill on the outside, defenses are tasked with shutting down Kansas City’s elite tight end – which is harder said than done.
MVP Candidate #2: Derrick Henry, RB, Titans
Definition: Juggernaut
Breaking tackles create opportunities for rushers to earn more yards – and defenses struggle bringing down Derrick Henry. When it’s clear that No.25 is receiving the football, defenders still fail to stop him from scoring. An appetite for the endzone makes Henry an elite back, and his numbers this season are more than impressive. Tennessee’s leading rusher is ranked first in rushing yards (1,010) and rushing attempts (230). His role on the Titans is vital to the team’s success and has kept the franchise in playoff contention.
Mike Vrabel’s squad is in the driver’s seat in the AFC South – looking to clinch a playoff berth. If Derrick henry continues his streak of dominance, the Titans will go as far as he leads them.
NFL MVP Candidate #1: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Definition: Clutch Performer
A decision to part ways with Tyreek Hill raised concerns for Chiefs fans expecting another year of a dominant passing attack. Many believed the Cheetah was the key to Kansas City’s success and the franchise would perform differently. Patrick Mahomes heard the speculation and waited patiently to prove his doubters wrong. Consecutive weeks of good football changed the minds of viewers on the fence.
A last-second touchdown drive against Los Angeles Chargers displayed No.15’s clutch genes again – reminding fans why he’s the best quarterback in football. Mahomes ranks first in passing yards (3,265) and passing touchdowns (28) and is on his way to another playoff berth. Kansas City will continue to rely on their quarterback to lead them to success, and it is up to Mahomes to pull through.
Impressive performances throughout the season help the franchise advance towards a playoff berth. Greatness deserves recognition, and these players are representing their teams exceptionally well this season.