What the NFL MVP Award Is and Why It Matters
The NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award is presented each season to the player who had the greatest overall impact on his team’s success and the league during the regular season. Voters consider dominance, consistency, position scarcity, and performance in important games. The award is not based on statistics alone; intangibles such as leadership, clutch plays, and elevating teammates matter. Multiple groups contribute to the conversation, culminating in a widely recognized individual honor that shapes legacies and conversations around the game.
How the MVP Is Chosen and What Voters Consider
The award is administered by the Associated Press (AP), and the media panel evaluates candidates against specific criteria including impact, performance, and carry-the-team status. Teams can fare better when their best player is recognized, and MVP outcomes often reflect a blend of box-score dominance and narrative context. While outcomes vary by season, voters tend to favor players whose teams succeed and who demonstrate outsized influence over contests. Understanding this rubric helps interpret annual debates and sets realistic expectations about what constitutes MVP-level contribution in any given year.
Key Criteria in MVP Voting
- Individual statistics and advanced metrics that demonstrate dominance
- Contribution to team wins and record
- Playing time and durability across the season
- Performance in high-leverage matchups and divisional games
- Position value and the scarcity of elite talent at that position
Recent NFL MVP Winners by Season
Identifying a single MVP each year captures a consensus view of who mattered most in the 17-game slate. Panels use votes to express preference; ties are uncommon and result in shared placements where appropriate. The table below lists the primary award recipient for each recent season, the team they played for, and a concise snapshot of why they stood out.
| Season | MVP Winner | Team | Key Reason Highlighted by Voters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Lamar Jackson | \nBaltimore Ravens | Elite rushing threat with record-setting efficiency |
| 2022 | Patrick Mahomes | Kansas City Chiefs | Dynamic passing and dual-threat capability |
| 2021 | Aaron Rodgers | Green Bay Packers | Exceptional completion rate and clutch performances |
| 2020 | Dak Prescott | Dallas Cowboys | Leadership and efficiency amid challenging season |
| 2019 | Lamar Jackson | Baltimore Ravens | Revolutionary rushing ability and offensive efficiency |
Where to Find the Official MVP
Because the question “who was MVP this year NFL” often arises during or just after the regular season, it is important to consult authoritative sources. The Associated Press manages the narrative award and publishes results on its official channels. The league and teams may reference the honor in press releases, but the AP panel remains the primary voice. For the most current winner, visit the AP site, check the league’s official news release archive, or review reputable sports outlets that adhere to strict editorial standards.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Confusion sometimes arises between the AP MVP, the NFL Honors selection, and distinctions such as Offensive Player of the Year or league scoring and rushing titles. While some players earn multiple year-end recognitions, MVP specifically reflects the holistic judgment of the media panel. Additionally, the Super Bowl winner does not automatically produce the MVP; history includes seasons in which the champion did not hold the award. Understanding these distinctions reduces noise when discussing individual seasons and career narratives.
How to Evaluate MVP Candidates Throughout the Season
For fans and analysts, tracking MVP conversations means observing a blend of performance trends and context. Key signals include a player’s team record when they are on or off the field, their ability to perform in close games, and whether their skill set addresses a critical team need. Advanced metrics that adjust for schedule strength and opportunity can complement traditional stats, but the final assessment remains a synthesis of evidence and narrative. This framework remains useful whether you are following a current MVP chase or reviewing past seasons retrospectively.
Legacy and Impact of Winning MVP
Winning the NFL MVP can elevate a player’s career trajectory, influencing contract negotiations, endorsement interest, and historical rankings. While it does not guarantee induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, it consistently strengthens a player’s legacy narrative. Conversely, seasons in which a favorite or high-ceiling player falls short can prompt debates about health, scheme fit, and longevity. Understanding the weight of the award helps contextualize both the immediate celebration and the long-term discourse around a player’s career.
Quick Reference: Recent MVPs at a Glance
- 2023: Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) — dual-threat dominance and record-setting efficiency
- 2022: Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs) — explosive passing and clutch execution
- 2021: Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers) — precision and big-game reliability
- 2020: Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys) — leadership and efficiency in a condensed season
- 2019: Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) — revolutionary rushing-threat model
Where to Verify the Current MVP
To confirm the current year’s MVP, check the Associated Press official announcement, the NFL’s verified channels, and major outlets with transparent sourcing practices. Look for clear disclosure of voting results and a rationale that references measurable impact and team success. Avoid relying on unofficial social posts or rumors that do not cite the panel’s criteria or individual voter breakdowns. When in doubt, consult the AP archive or the league’s official newsroom for the authoritative answer.