Who Is the Favorite to Win the NFL MVP?
Two quarterbacks stand clearly above the rest in the race for the NFL Most Valuable Player award: Matthew Stafford and Drake Maye. Their numbers, impact, and leadership have positioned them as the top contenders for the league’s most prestigious individual honor.
The 2025 NFL season delivered one of the most intense MVP races in recent memory. While stars like Christian McCaffrey and Josh Allen posted outstanding campaigns, the performances of Matthew Stafford with the Los Angeles Rams and Drake Maye with the New England Patriots have put them at the front of the conversation heading into the 2025 MVP vote.
Both quarterbacks not only led key statistical categories, but also turned their teams into true contenders, elevating their offenses and making a difference week after week.
Stafford, the League’s Most Dominant Quarterback
In his 17th NFL season, Matthew Stafford delivered one of the finest years of his career. The quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams led the entire league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdown passes, numbers that highlight his complete control from the pocket and his ability to attack any defense.
Stafford also finished second in passer rating, proving that his production was not just about volume, but also efficiency. His connection with a high-powered offense made the Rams one of the most dangerous units in the NFL, and his leadership was rewarded with his first career All-Pro selection.
Beyond the stats, Stafford showed himself to be the most reliable quarterback in critical moments, consistently delivering in close games and keeping his team in control under pressure.
Drake Maye, the New Power in the AFC
On the other side stands Drake Maye, the young star who brought the New England Patriots back to the elite. In his first full season as the unquestioned starter, Maye threw for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions, leading the NFL in passer rating and completion percentage.
His impact was immediate. New England won the AFC East title and returned to the AFC Championship Game, something that once seemed far away after the end of the Tom Brady era. Maye did not just fill the void — he created a new offensive identity for the franchise.
His accuracy, field vision, and composure in high-pressure situations have made him the most dominant young quarterback in the league.
A Two-Man Race
While many players had great seasons, the reality is that the 2025 MVP race is shaping up to be a direct battle between Matthew Stafford and Drake Maye. One represents elite experience at its peak; the other is the future already performing at the highest level.
With two different but equally effective styles, the final decision will come down to who makes the biggest impact in the most important games. For now, the race for MVP has two clear favorites — and both are playing at an elite NFL level.
