Jalen Hurts, Trevor Lawrence, and other dark horses are among the top nine candidates for the 2026 NFL MVP award. The quarterback position has dominated the MVP conversation in recent seasons, with a quarterback winning the award in 18 of the last 20 seasons. However, the 2026 season promises to be an intriguing one, with several players vying for the top spot. Here's a breakdown of the top contenders and their potential paths to the MVP title.
Atlanta Falcons' RB Robinson
The Atlanta Falcons' Robinson is a dark horse candidate for the MVP award. He led the league in scrimmage yards last season, but his team struggled with an 8-9 record. With the addition of Kevin Stefanski as head coach, Robinson might have more goal-line opportunities. If Tua Tagovailoa starts at QB, Robinson could face stacked boxes more often, but a record-breaking season could fuel Atlanta's playoff run.
Minnesota Vikings' QB Murray
Kevin O'Connell's QB guru skills are put to the test with Murray, who cratered in Arizona. If Murray taps back into his dual-threat ability, the Vikings could be surprise contenders in the NFC North. The supporting cast, including WR Justin Jefferson and a solid offensive line, could help Murray unlock his peak form.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers' QB Mayfield
Mayfield had a leading MVP candidate status at midseason, but injuries and the loss of Mike Evans impacted his performance. With a young receiving corps and a new offensive coordinator, Mayfield will try to bounce back. The NFC South is still winnable for Tampa Bay, and Mayfield's injury luck could improve, putting him back in the MVP conversation.
Philadelphia Eagles' QB Hurts
Hurts' offense struggled in the second half of the 2025 season, but a fresh start with a new offensive coordinator and a revamped receiving corps could help him roar back. The Eagles' offensive line remains strong, and Hurts will have to improve his performance to return to the form that made him an MVP runner-up.
Seattle Seahawks' QB Darnold
Darnold's 'Darnold's going to turn into a pumpkin' narrative was on life support after the Seahawks' Super Bowl win. With Kenneth Walker III's departure and Zach Charbonnet's recovery from injury, Darnold might be asked to carry an even greater offensive load. If he proves up to the challenge, the Seahawks could be contending for a second straight crown.
Washington Commanders' QB Daniels
Daniels' MVP odds were high last summer, but an injury-plagued 2025 season has raised questions. The Commanders' new offense, coordinated by David Blough, will ask Daniels to take more snaps from under center. With support from the team, Daniels could surprise and become a leading contender.
Detroit Lions' QB Goff
Goff's consistent top-tier production and a manageable schedule make him a strong contender. The new-look offensive line, with All-Pro Penei Sewell and Cade Mays, will be crucial to Goff's success. With clean pockets, Goff should rack up big numbers and improve his MVP chances.
Jacksonville Jaguars' QB Lawrence
Lawrence finished fifth in the MVP voting last season, but the Jaguars' inactivity in free agency has raised questions. With the addition of RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. and TE Nate Boerkircher, Lawrence will need to develop and lead the team to put himself in the MVP conversation.
San Francisco 49ers' QB Purdy
Purdy enjoys the stability of playing in the same offensive system for the fifth consecutive season with Kyle Shanahan. With a strong receiving corps, including Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, and a talented offensive line, Purdy could lead the 49ers to a leading contender status and an MVP title.
