The Super Bowl MVP award is one of the most exciting honors in football, often crowning a standout player who defines the game. For Super Bowl LIX, the debate is heating up as fans, analysts, and bettors try to predict who will claim this coveted title. So, who are the top contenders, and what are their chances of being the ultimate game-changer?
What Are the Odds and Who Are the Favorites for Super Bowl MVP 2025?
Super Bowl MVP predictions often follow clear trends. Since 1999, quarterbacks have won the award 15 times, making them the safest bets. Why? Quarterbacks are typically the face of their team, orchestrating game-winning drives and delivering clutch performances. But with so much talent on both rosters, who’s going to be Super Bowl MVP this year? Team success is critical—MVP winners almost always come from the winning team.
This year, the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles bring stacked rosters to the big game. Unsurprisingly, quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts lead the MVP odds. Still, could this be the year for a running back or even a defensive star to steal the spotlight? Let’s dive into the top contenders.
Top Contenders for Super Bowl MVP
1. Patrick Mahomes (+105)
Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl MVP, is the clear favorite. His ability to deliver under pressure and create game-changing plays makes him a natural pick. However, voter fatigue could hurt his chances. After all, how many times can Mahomes win before voters look elsewhere? Additionally, if his teammates, like Travis Kelce or rookie Xavier Worthy, shine brighter, Mahomes might not lock in the award.
2. Saquon Barkley (+240)
Barkley is the most intriguing non-QB candidate. With 442 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns in just three postseason games, he’s been unstoppable. If the Eagles rely on their dominant ground game to win, Barkley could break the 25-year drought for running backs winning MVP. The last RB to win was Terrell Davis in 1997, and Barkley’s postseason stats mirror Davis’ legendary run. Could this be the year history repeats itself?
3. Jalen Hurts (+375)
Hurts is another strong contender. Known for his dual-threat abilities, he can dominate both in the air and on the ground. His previous Super Bowl performance (300 passing yards, 3 rushing TDs) proved he can deliver on the biggest stage. If the Eagles win and Barkley doesn’t completely steal the show, Hurts could easily take home the MVP.
Could Non-QB Players Be Game Changers in Super Bowl LIX?
While quarterbacks dominate the MVP award, non-QB players occasionally break through. Wide receivers, for example, have won five times since 1999. Players like Julian Edelman and Cooper Kupp earned the honor by delivering clutch performances in critical moments. Defensive players, though rare, also have a shot—especially in blowout games where their dominance is undeniable.
Key Non-QB Contenders
1. Travis Kelce (15-1)
Kelce is Mahomes’ favorite target and one of the best tight ends in NFL history. For Kelce to win MVP, he’d need an extraordinary performance—think multiple touchdowns and over 150 yards receiving. Those tracking his red-zone dominance should monitor Top NFL Game Props This Week, which highlight odds for his receptions and scoring plays.
2. Xavier Worthy (30-1)
The Chiefs’ explosive rookie wide receiver is a dark horse worth watching. Worthy has the potential to deliver game-changing plays, especially if Mahomes faces voter fatigue. If Worthy scores a long touchdown or contributes in multiple ways (e.g., rushing and receiving), he could surprise everyone.
3. A.J. Brown (35-1)
Brown is one of the Eagles’ top offensive weapons. To win, he’d need a dominant receiving performance without Hurts excelling. This scenario is unlikely, but he could be a viable candidate if Hurts struggles and Brown carries the offense.
Defensive Long Shots
1. Chris Jones (66-1)
Jones is the Chiefs’ defensive anchor. Jones could emerge as the MVP if Kansas City’s defense dominates and limits the Eagles’ rushing attack. Defensive players rarely win, but Jones has the talent to make game-changing plays.
2. Jalen Carter (66-1)
Carter, a rookie defensive tackle for the Eagles, has been a force all season. If the Eagles’ defense stifles the Chiefs and Carter delivers multiple sacks or a game-turning play, he could enter the MVP conversation.
Conclusion
Patrick Mahomes remains the safest bet, but Saquon Barkley offers the most intriguing storyline. Jalen Hurts is a strong contender, while long shots like Travis Kelce and Xavier Worthy provide exciting alternatives. Ultimately, the MVP will come down to which team wins and how the game unfolds—so keep an eye on the key players and enjoy the action.
