Sat Jan 03 21:20:00 UTC 2026: Summary:
The NFL MVP race has dramatically shifted in the final week of the season. Drake Maye of the Atlanta Falcons has become the overwhelming favorite, surpassing Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams, who faltered in a recent game. Maye’s odds are now at -400, implying an 80% chance of winning. Stafford’s poor performance against the Falcons, including three interceptions, significantly hurt his chances. Other contenders like Lawrence, Williams, Herbert, Allen, Darnold, and Nix have only a slim chance, but strong performances in the final week could improve their standing in the voting. Ultimately, Maye is expected to win unless he significantly underperforms in the last game.
News Article:
Maye Surges to Frontrunner in NFL MVP Race After Stafford Stumbles
ATLANTA, GA – The NFL MVP race has seen a dramatic shift in the final week of the season, with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Drake Maye now the overwhelming favorite to take home the coveted award.
A week ago, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford held the top spot, with DraftKings giving him a 68.8% chance of winning. However, a disappointing performance on Monday Night Football, including three interceptions in a loss against Maye’s Falcons, has completely changed the landscape.
“It was Maye’s five-touchdown detonation against the New York Jets combined with Stafford’s dud that totally flipped the narrative and the race,” said one sports analyst.
Maye’s odds have surged to -400, implying an 80% chance of winning the MVP title. According to DraftKings, unless Maye has a significant collapse in the final game against the Miami Dolphins, the award is his to lose.
Stafford now faces an uphill battle. While Rams coach Sean McVay has indicated starters may play in Week 18, Stafford will need a phenomenal performance to regain lost ground and hope for a Maye meltdown.
Other contenders, including Lawrence, Williams, Herbert, Allen, Darnold, and Nix, remain longshots. While statistically unlikely to win, strong performances in Week 18 could improve their standing in the voting process.
The final week of the regular season promises to be a nail-biter as players vie for the coveted MVP award. Tune in to see if Maye can hold onto his lead or if Stafford can stage a miraculous comeback. (Contact your TV provider for listings).