The finalists for the NFL’s prestigious MVP award have been revealed, with quarterbacks Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills), Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens), Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals), Jared Goff (Detroit Lions), and Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley making the cut.
However, the inclusion of Goff has caused an uproar among fans on social media.
Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills star, is widely regarded as the favorite to claim the honor after leading his team to a fifth consecutive AFC East title.
With 3,731 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, just six interceptions, and a 101.4 passer rating, Allen also showcased his dual-threat capability by rushing for 531 yards and 12 scores. He outperformed fellow finalist Lamar Jackson in last weekend’s Divisional Round, further solidifying his MVP case.
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Goff’s controversial nomination
While Allen and others have earned their spot in the MVP race, Jared Goff‘s inclusion has left many fans baffled. The Detroit Lions quarterback enjoyed an impressive regular season, ranking second in passing yards (4,629), fourth in touchdown passes (37), and second in completion percentage among starters (72.4%). However, his postseason performance has drawn criticism.
During the Lions‘ Divisional Round loss to the Washington Commanders, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels outshone Goff, propelling Washington to the NFC Championship. Despite Goff’s solid showing of 313 passing yards and one touchdown, fans took to social media to voice their disapproval of his MVP candidacy.
On Twitter, reactions were swift and critical:
“Probably between Jackson and Allen. Why is Goff on there?” wrote one user.
“Jared Goff?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!!?!?!,” exclaimed another.
“ZERO reason for Jared Goff to be here,” insisted a third.
“Replace Goff with Jayden Daniels,” suggested a fourth.
Another simply laughed: “Jared Goff LMFAOOOO.”
How the MVP is decided
The NFL MVP award recognizes the most outstanding player of the regular season, with voting conducted before the playoffs begin. Goff‘s nomination reflects his strong regular-season statistics rather than his postseason struggles.
As the debate continues, fans await the announcement of the winner, with Josh Allen expected to edge out the competition.