2022 NFL MVP Predictions
1. Justin Herbert: In the first two years of an NFL career, no quarterback has thrown for more yards or touchdowns than Justin Herbert. In 2021, Herbert finished top three in yards, touchdowns, & QBR. He also led the Chargers to 4th in total offense. The fact that the Chargers have spent like a franchise that believes they have the best player in football says a lot. Star wide receivers Kenan Allen and Mike Williams are back. The additions of rookie offensive linemen Zion Johnson and Jamaree Salyer sored up the offensive line. Backs added include Isaiah Spiller and Sony Michel. Presumably, the win loss record will be improved. The only thing that hindered his MVP case last season was fact that the Chargers were a fringe playoff team. I predict winning will not be an issue the year. Herbert is my pick to win NFL MVP for the 2022 season.
2. Josh Allen: After his performance in the playoffs last year, Josh Allen became the best quarterback in the league for many football minds. His 2021 season was an impressive one where he piled up 5,170 total yards and 42 touchdowns. The Bills also won the AFC East and advanced to the 2nd round of the playoffs, where they lost in a classic of a game to the Kansas City Chiefs. In reality, Allen is in prime position to win the award. The AFC East is tough, but it’s not nearly as tough as the AFC West will be. Furthermore, the Bills reinforced their offensive line and running back depth. Those two factors surely will aid in the Allen’s MVP case. The more regular season wins, the better. Don’t be shocked if Allen brings home the hardware in 2022.
3.Lamar Jackson: Lamar Jackson, despite everything he’s accomplished, is still one of the most highly debated players in the sport. Doubts about his ability to make throws from the pocket, read coverages, and “lead” a team are all still in question by some media pundits. I believe this is the year he puts them to bed for good. Losing your number one receiver hurts, but the offensive line and running back rooms are healthy and whole again. The Ravens will once again return to the playoffs and possibly even win the division – and it will be because Lamar Jackson willed them there. There might be teams with better records and that will give those players a better shot, but Lamar will be amongst the best of the best in 2022.
4.Tom Brady: Death, Taxes, & Tom Brady being the best quarterback in football. Whenever you think about the best, an image of TB12 probably pops up in your head. Despite a bevy of issues, the Bucs will be as dangerous as anyone. Offensive line injury and running back health are of concern. Coming off a year where he led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns, then retired & unretired, Brady has proven he’s not only capable, but hungry. With the addition of Julio Jones, Kyle Rudolph and Russell Gage to go alongside Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, Brady has no shortage of weapons again. Byron Leftwich is still calling plays. You can never count the old man out. TB12 will do what TB12 does.
5.Patrick Mahomes: After losing All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill, many are banking on seeing a decline in Mahomes play. I’m not one of them. Sure, a player like Hill is an undeniable asset and safety valve. However, I believe strongly in Mahomes ability to find other ways to get the job done. Andy Reid and Eric Bieniemy are amongst the very best play callers in football. There’s no doubt they will out Mahomes in position to excel. Additionally, Pro Bowl wide receiver Ju-Ju Smith Schuster, Veteran Marquez Valdez-Scantling, and 2nd round pick Skyy Moore will offer a newfound depth and versatility to the WR room. Travis Kelce & arguably the best offensive line in football offer Mahomes a consistency and comfort that not many QB’s in the NFL have. Mahomes will once again be amongst the league’s best.
