NFL Executives Select Joe Burrow as 2026 MVP Favorite

NFL personnel evaluators favor Joe Burrow for MVP and Will Anderson Jr. for Defensive Player of the Year in a survey of 2026 award candidates.

NFL executives and scouts have identified Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow as the leading candidate for the 2026 MVP award. Burrow, who threw for 4,918 yards and 43 touchdowns in his last full season in 2024, edged out Justin Herbert and Josh Allen in the polling. The Bengals' offense is expected to increase under-center snaps this year to improve a rushing attack that ranked 29th in the league last season.

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is the pick for Offensive Player of the Year after recording 39 rushing touchdowns through his first three seasons. Gibbs enters the year as the primary lead back following an injury to veteran Isiah Pacheco. In the defensive category, Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. is favored for Defensive Player of the Year. Anderson has increased his sack production annually, reaching 12 sacks last season, and will play alongside Danielle Hunter in 2026.

Seattle Seahawks running back Jadarian Price, the 32nd overall pick out of Notre Dame, is the projected Offensive Rookie of the Year. For Defensive Rookie of the Year, league personnel selected Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs, who is expected to play primarily in the slot. Additionally, Patrick Mahomes is the favorite for Comeback Player of the Year as he returns from a torn ACL and PCL. Green Bay Packers receiver Matthew Golden was named the top breakout candidate, while Dallas Cowboys' Brian Schottenheimer received the most support for Coach of the Year.