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After reviewing previews for all 32 NFL teams and analyzing futures markets for Super Bowl predictions, category winners, and playoff bets, we used the Sportsline Awards futures market to rank the top MVP contenders, featuring 25 players including five long shots. Additionally, we identified the top 10 favorites and notable outsiders for other awards.
Lamar Jackson, who narrowly missed winning his third MVP last season, is the favorite in most sportsbooks, with Josh Allen occasionally seen as a strong competitor. Ashton Jeanty and Abdul Carter lead the bets for Rookie of the Year, while Saquon Barkley is favored to repeat as Offensive Player of the Year. On defense, Miles Garrett, Mika Parsons, and Ada Hutchinson are the front-runners for Defensive Player of the Year. For Comeback Player of the Year, Hutchinson and Dak Prescott are top contenders, and Mike Vrabel and Ben Johnson are favored for Coach of the Year.
A new award, Protector of the Year, will debut this season, judged by a panel of six former offensive linemen rather than the usual AP voters. Penei Sewell is an early favorite for this honor, with Lane Johnson also in contention.
Below are the runners-up for each of the eight major awards, often very close to the leaders in odds. These near-leaders are considered ‘1B’ rather than clear second choices.
MVP: Bo Nix is a long shot with +6000 odds. Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson have had strong starts to their MVP careers, though Nix’s development under coach Sean Payton could make him a serious contender. Despite this, one player remains favored to surpass him in the MVP race.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Cameron Ward holds +350 odds. The Tennessee Titans are emerging as a sleeper team thanks to improved quarterback play and offensive line additions. Ward draws parallels to previous strong rookie QB performances and is seen as a potential breakout star.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Mason Graham, at +1600, is a solid defensive lineman bet. While rookies winning this award usually excel as edge rushers, Graham could value-add from his role alongside veteran Miles Garrett and a defensive scheme led by Jim Schwartz.
Offensive Player of the Year: Justin Jefferson, with +1600 odds, is a top contender after leading the league in receptions and yards in 2022. His performances against certain teams and improved offense give him a strong chance to hit 2,000 receiving yards in 2025.
Defensive Player of the Year: Nick Bosa, at +1500, remains a top defensive candidate after returning to form under defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. Despite injury setbacks, Bosa consistently rates among the elite pass rushers and is poised to rejoin the award conversation.
Comeback Player of the Year: JJ McCarthy, at +1000, stands out despite questions about eligibility based on playing time. If he leads the Vikings to the playoffs and delivers strong stats, he could be the front-runner in this quarterback-biased award.
Protector of the Year: Jordan Mailata, +1000 favorite by Caesars and FanDuel, is rated as one of the best tackles in the league by analysts. Age and performance metrics suggest he may edge out teammate Lane Johnson for this inaugural award.
Coach of the Year: Sean Payton, at +2000, is a strong pick given his work developing Bo Nix and improving the Broncos. If Denver surpasses expectations and claims the AFC West, Payton will be a frontrunner for the coach award.
Fan Take: This comprehensive look at NFL award contenders sheds light on emerging talent and potential breakout stars, offering fans exciting narratives for the upcoming season. Keeping an eye on these players and coaches not only fuels fan engagement but also highlights the evolving dynamics shaping the future of the league.
