Sep 2, 2026, 10:30 AM CUT

2026 NFL MVP Odds: Which players are most likely to make it to the top?

NFL, American Football Herren, USA Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Buffalo Bills Nov 16, 2025 Orchard Park, New York, USA Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen 17 takes the field prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Highmark Stadium. Orchard Park Highmark Stadium New York USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xGregoryxFisherx 20251116_ajw_fb5_155

With the 2026 NFL season approaching, the MVP race is starting to take shape. Athlon Sports betting writer Matt Romanoski breaks down the early favorites, from established MVP winners to quarterbacks looking to make their first run at the award.

With the reigning MVP also in the mix, there’s plenty to watch as the season gets closer.

1. Josh Allen (+600)

Allen played all 17 games in 2025, throwing for 3,668 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He also ran for 579 yards and 14 touchdowns.

“Allen looked like a threat to win his second consecutive MVP award last season before fading late,” Athlon Sports Betting Writer Matt Romanoski wrote on August 27.

November 30, 2025, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA: Buffalo Bills quarterback JOSH ALLEN 17 comes out of the tunnel with teammates before the NFL, American Football Herren, USA football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh USA - ZUMAg257 20251130_zsp_g257_025 Copyright: xBrentxGudenschwagerx

With D.J. Moore, rookie Skyler Bell and a new offensive-minded coach joining the picture, Allen remains the early favorite.

2. Lamar Jackson (+800)

Jackson played 13 games last season, finishing with 2,549 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. His 349 rushing yards were a career low.

“As a two-time MVP with a history of explosive dual-threat seasons and elite efficiency when healthy, Jackson retains massive upside if the Ravens stabilize and he stays on the field,” analyst Matt Romanoski wrote on 27.

3. Joe Burrow (+850)

Burrow's season ended after eight games because of a turf-toe injury. He still recorded 1,809 yards and 17 touchdowns.

“Health remains the primary risk, but a full healthy season paired with the Bengals’ elite receiving weapons and a favorable schedule could finally deliver his first MVP,” Romanoski added.

4. Patrick Mahomes (+1000)

Mahomes played 14 games before tearing his ACL and LCL. Kansas City finished 6-11 and missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade.

“Even without elite receiving talent, Mahomes runs Andy Reid’s offense to perfection and is capable of putting up huge stats on a consistent basis,” Romanoski wrote.

5. Drake Maye (+1000)

Maye broke out in 2025, throwing for 4,394 yards, 31 touchdowns, and eight interceptions while leading New England to the Super Bowl.

“His rapid ascent from a solid rookie year positions him as one of the most intriguing young candidates,” analyst Romanoski wrote.

The Patriots also added A.J. Brown this offseason.

6. Justin Herbert (+1000)

Herbert threw for 3,727 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for a career-high 498 yards.

“The Chargers signed center Tyler Biadasz in free agency and welcomed back tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt from injury, so Herbert should have more time in the pocket,” Romanoski added.

Those changes could make life easier for Herbert in 2026. New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel also brings a motion-heavy offense that could give the Chargers quarterback more chances to make plays.

With the 2026 season approaching, the MVP race is already taking shape, with plenty of familiar names and a few rising stars in the mix.

Written by

Debanjali Rakshit

Edited by

Debanjali Rakshit