Josh Allen somehow won the NFL MVP award over Lamar Jackson in what might turn out to be the most obvious ‘charity’ awards in NFL history.
When the NFL announced Josh Allen as the 2024 MVP over Lamar Jackson, it sent shockwaves through the football world. While Allen had an impressive season, many believe Lamar Jackson was more deserving of the award, and this decision reflects deeper issues in how the NFL evaluates talent and success.
First, let’s consider the numbers. Lamar Jackson led the Baltimore Ravens to a 13-4 record, securing the top seed in the AFC. Jackson threw for over 3,800 yards and 24 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 900 yards and five touchdowns. His dual-threat ability made him the most dynamic player on the field every week. Jackson didn’t just post stats—he carried his team through injuries and tough matchups, showcasing leadership and resilience.
Josh Allen, on the other hand, had a strong season with the Buffalo Bills, but his performance wasn’t as consistent. He threw for over 4,300 yards and 36 touchdowns, but also led the league in interceptions with 17. While Allen’s arm strength and improvisation are undeniable, his reckless play often put his team in difficult situations. The Bills finished with an 11-6 record, and while they surged late in the season, they were inconsistent for much of the year.
The MVP award is supposed to recognize the player most valuable to their team, and it’s hard to argue that Allen was more crucial to the Bills’ success than Jackson was to the Ravens’. Without Jackson, Baltimore’s offense struggles to function, given how much it relies on his mobility and decision-making. Allen, while vital to Buffalo, had a more complete supporting cast, including a top-tier defense and elite receivers like Stefon Diggs.
Beyond the stats, Jackson’s growth as a passer in 2024 deserves recognition. Critics often pointed to his reliance on running, but this season he demonstrated improved accuracy, better pocket presence, and smarter decision-making. He beat top defenses with his arm, silencing doubters who claimed he couldn’t win from the pocket. Meanwhile, Allen continued to struggle with turnovers, a glaring flaw for a supposed MVP.
Another point of contention is the narrative around both players. Jackson, a former MVP in 2019, has often faced unfair criticism regarding his style of play and durability. His achievements are sometimes downplayed, while players like Allen are celebrated for similar play styles. The MVP race felt like another example of the NFL favoring flashy, high-risk quarterbacks over consistent, game-changing performers like Jackson.
The decision also raises questions about the MVP voting process. Are voters prioritizing highlight-reel plays over consistent excellence? Do they consider the full context of a player’s contribution to their team’s success? In Jackson’s case, it seems his all-around dominance and leadership were overlooked in favor of Allen’s big-arm theatrics, despite the latter’s flaws.
Ultimately, awarding the MVP to Josh Allen over Lamar Jackson feels like a disservice to the game. Jackson not only led his team to the best record in the AFC but also showcased the evolution of his game in a way that should have silenced any remaining critics. The NFL missed an opportunity to reward true value and consistency, and in doing so, it sent a confusing message about what it truly means to be the “Most Valuable Player.”
