6. Drake Maye, New England Patriots
We all had eyes last year and could see that New England Patriots' QB Drake Maye was playing out of his mind. He finished 2nd in the MVP voting and did nearly win.
With how good Maye was last year, he did prove that he is able to be a high-end passer. Sure, the Patriots did benefit from a very easy schedule, but there is also a distinct chance that their 2025 season was every bit of the real deal.
Maye could enjoy another efficient season, especially with improved weaponry, and win the MVP if it all comes together.
5. Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams did make a lot of strides as a passer from 2024 into 2025. Sure, the completion percentage was ugly, but that could simply improve as he becomes more comfortable in Ben Johnson's offense.
One thing that Williams has not done much of in his career is throw interceptions. He's had single-digit totals each year of his career. Williams also took way less sacks and was an overall more productive player in year two.
The logical next step is an even bigger breakout season in year three, which could end up being good enough for the MVP award.
4. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen perhaps controversially won the MVP award in the 2024 season, as Baltimore Ravens' QB Lamar Jackson was the better, more productive and more deserving player.
With that said, Allen has been a top QB in this league for years now, and he's honestly well within MVP striking distance most every single season. That really shouldn't chance in 2026.
He does have a new weapon in wide receiver DJ Moore, so we could see his passing touchdown total eclipse 30 for the first time since the 2022 season. While Allen's passing production has actually dipped the past couple of seasons, he's continually among the best players in the league and can win the MVP this year.
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