Winning the NFL MVP is the ultimate personal accolade. But what happens when a player dominates the season, and still gets snubbed? Let’s rank the biggest MVP robberies in NFL history, where all-time performances somehow weren’t enough.
5. Russell Wilson (2019)
Who Won Instead: Lamar Jackson
Lamar’s MVP was well-earned, but Wilson’s early-season heroics kept the Seahawks alive. The snub is more about how Wilson has never received an MVP vote, despite elite consistency.
4. LaDainian Tomlinson (2006) (Not a robbery, but worth revisiting)
Counterpoint: This is what should win MVP. LT had 31 total TDs and set records that still stand. Ironically, it’s a reference point for why later snubs like Henry seem even worse.
3. Derrick Henry (2020)
Who Won Instead: Aaron Rodgers
Henry became just the eighth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000+ yards. He carried the Titans offense on his back. Rodgers had a great year, but should a QB award really overshadow a generational rushing season?
2. Jerry Rice (1987)
Who Won Instead: John Elway
Rice scored 22 touchdowns in just 12 games due to a strike-shortened season. Elway had solid numbers but didn’t dominate statistically. Rice’s season remains one of the greatest by a wide receiver, yet no MVP. Absurd.
1. Drew Brees (2009 & 2011)
Who Won Instead: Peyton Manning (2009), Aaron Rodgers (2011)
Brees passed for over 5,000 yards twice in seasons he didn’t win MVP. In 2009, he led the Saints to a 13–0 start and a Super Bowl title, yet Peyton edged him out. In 2011, Brees broke Dan Marino’s long-standing passing yardage record, yet Rodgers took the award. Highway robbery.
The MVP award is QB-heavy and often narrative-driven. These snubs prove that sometimes, “most valuable” gets lost in the hype. Should the NFL rethink how MVPs are voted?
