The NFL MVP award is one of the most prestigious honors in sports, awarded to the player deemed most valuable during the regular season. While the idea of co-MVPs may seem unconventional, it has happened before—most notably in 2003, when Peyton Manning and Steve McNair shared the award.
With Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen leading remarkable campaigns this year, the possibility of a shared MVP crown has become a topic of intrigue. Could these dual-threat quarterbacks redefine history?
Similar Paths to Greatness
Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen have both dominated the league this season with their unique skill sets and consistent performances. Jackson, a two-time MVP, has elevated his game to unprecedented levels, achieving career highs in passing accuracy and total touchdowns. His ability to combine dynamic rushing with efficient passing has made him a nightmare for defenses, with the Ravens leading the league in offensive efficiency. There’s a good chance the Ravens take the big win this year.
On the other hand, Allen has continued to demonstrate his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for over 4,000 yards while rushing for an impressive 531 yards. Despite falling short of Jackson’s individual statistics, Allen has been the driving force behind the Bills’ strong record, further solidifying his status as a top-tier quarterback. The Bills have their own solid chance to take home rings.
Their shared versatility and statistical output have fueled discussions about a co-MVP scenario, particularly given how closely they’ve been matched this season. There’s no questioning why these two guys have made our ranked list for the best quarterbacks currently playing.
The Case for Co-MVPs
A co-MVP award would reflect the reality of a league increasingly shaped by versatile quarterbacks. In 2003, Manning and McNair shared the honor after leading their teams to similarly dominant seasons. The NFL’s MVP voters recognized that both were equally vital to their teams’ success, setting a precedent for a shared accolade.
Jackson and Allen’s cases are strikingly similar. Both are at the peak of their games, leading their respective teams into the playoffs. Jackson has been a statistical marvel, but Allen’s leadership and ability to will the Bills to victories in tough matchups cannot be overlooked. Given that the MVP is often influenced by narrative, the head-to-head dynamic between Jackson and Allen adds an intriguing layer to the discussion.
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Challenges to a Co-MVP Outcome
Despite the compelling argument for co-MVPs, several hurdles exist. The NFL has only awarded the title jointly once, and voters may hesitate to repeat history. Additionally, Jackson’s superior statistical output, including a staggering 47 total touchdowns and fewer turnovers, gives him a slight edge in many analysts’ eyes. The MVP race could ultimately come down to individual performance rather than broader storylines.
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While Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen have both put forth MVP-caliber seasons, the decision to name co-MVPs would require voters to prioritize the broader narrative of equality over statistical dominance. As these two dynamic quarterbacks face off in a high-stakes playoff game, the outcome may further clarify the race. Regardless, both players have cemented their places as the future of the league, leaving fans to wonder if they might share the league’s highest individual honor.
