Joe Burrow has already led the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance and become one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks. But last year's injuries saw him out of action for a long time. Now back to his best, one analyst believes 2026 could finally be the year he wins the MVP award. 

According to Conor Orr, Joe Burrow is predicted to win the 2026 NFL MVP award. The analyst has backed the Bengals quarterback for the honor every year since 2022 and believes this could finally be the season his prediction comes true. 

“I have predicted Joe Burrow to be the NFL’s MVP every year since 2022,” Orr wrote on June 2. “This Mayan Calendar/End of Civilization approach is bound to be correct at some point.” 

One of the biggest reasons behind Orr’s confidence is Cincinnati’s schedule. The Bengals are expected to have the fourth-easiest schedule in the NFL, giving Burrow more chances to lead the offense and put up strong numbers. 

Orr believes the 2026 season could be different because the Bengals have a better situation around their star quarterback.

Joe Burrow’s numbers show why he is in the MVP conversation. When he stays healthy, he has proven he can perform at a high level. His best season came in 2024, when he threw for a league-high 4,918 yards and 43 touchdowns, the highest marks in the NFL that year.

Conor Orr’s prediction will also depend on how the Bengals perform as a team. MVP winners usually come from quarterbacks who can put up big numbers while helping their teams win.

In Burrow’s two healthy seasons, Cincinnati has averaged a winning record.

If the Bengals stay competitive and Burrow delivers in big moments, his MVP case in 2026 could get even stronger. With the team improving around him, all signs point toward a better season ahead. 

NFL Insider Makes a Joe Burrow Prediction

The Bengals received a boost after Joe Burrow’s AFC North rival, Myles Garrett, was traded to the Rams. Garrett had been one of the toughest opponents for Burrow, recording 16 sacks against him in 14 games.

NFL insider Adam Schefter believes Cincinnati can be a strong contender this season if Burrow stays healthy.

“If Joe Burrow is healthy, they’re probably going to be playing with a lead a lot of the time, and if they’re playing with the lead,” Schefter said. “It takes a lot of the pressure off what should be a much-improved defense.”

Schefter also pointed toward Burrow’s confidence in the roster, the team’s improved defense, and an easier schedule as reasons why the Bengals could have a big year.

For now, it is just a prediction. But with Burrow playing well and the team looking stronger, 2026 could be an important year for him. 

What do you think about his MVP chances in 2026? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote