NFL MVP Standings

Here are my top 5 NFL MVP candidates, an update (and improvement) on Arnav's list from earlier in the quarter.

5. Russell Wilson (Seattle Seahawks): As much as it pains me to give Wilson a spot, I think the Seahawks would have a losing record without him. While his blistering start to the season has slowed considerably, he still has the Hawks in position to win the NFC West. The turnover numbers (10 interceptions and 6 fumbles) are probably too high to win the award, but he sits at 2nd in passing touchdowns and 3rd in passing yards. 

4. Aaron Donald (LA Rams): Aaron Donald stands out on the field. It feels like every play he is shedding blockers in the run game or harassing the quarterback in the pass game. While he certainly passes the eye test, the numbers are there as well. He ranks first in the league with 12 sacks and is 2nd with 4 forced fumbles. He is a big reason the Rams sit at first in the division and anchors a top-5 defense in the league. Unfortunately, it is near impossible for defenders to win the award, despite Donald's dominance.

3. Dalvin Cook (Minnesota Vikings): I just want to preface this by saying that Dalvin Cook has missed 2 games thus far, making his eye-popping numbers even more impressive. He ranks first in the league with 1385 total yards and is tied for the league in total touchdowns. He has done all of this on a terrific 5.2 yard per carry. While Cook has the misfortune of playing with the most average QB on the planet, he is a big reason for the Vikings resurgence. In the end, the NFL loves quarterbacks and one of them is going to win it.

2. Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers): I don't know if the Packers drafting Jordan Love really pissed Rodgers off, but he has been playing with a chip on his shoulder all season. Despite the lack of weapons, he has put up 3100 yards and 33 touchdowns, which rank 6th and 1st respectively. Most impressive has been the way ARod has taken care of the football, with just 6 turnovers over the first 12 games. Looking at the team, the Packers have the number one scoring offense and sit at 9-3, looking at a top playoff spot in the NFC. If the leading candidate slips up in a game or two down the stretch, Rodgers has a legitimate shot at the most prized award in the NFL.

1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): This shouldn't be a surprise. Mahomes has somehow elevated his sky-high levels of play and looks to be on his way to his second MVP award. He leads the league in passing yards and has a ridiculous 30/2 touchdown to interception ratio. His Chiefs lead comfortably in the AFC West and have looked dominant throughout the season. This is Mahomes award to lose.