10 favorites to win NFL MVP Award in 2016-17 season

10 favorites to win the NFL MVP Award in the 2016-17 season

Jan 24, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 20, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) passes the ball against the Denver Broncos during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 8: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers

You knew this was coming, didn’t you? Surely, if a wide receiver finds his way into the conversation for the MVP Award, the quarterback throwing him the ball can’t be far behind.

In fact, the reality is that if Brown had a season worthy of MVP consideration, Ben Roethlisberger would likely be the one taking home the award. As we’ve established, this is an award dominated by quarterbacks — quarterbacks have won the award 38 times, compared to 18 by running backs and three total by every other position.

Roethlisberger, the No. 11 overall pick in 2004, has put together a Hall of Fame career. His resume includes a pair of Super Bowl titles (in three appearances), four Pro Bowl selections and an Offensive Rookie of the Year honor. He’s the Steelers’ career leader in wins, passing yards and passing touchdowns. A league MVP award would sure be a nice addition to that resume.

Pittsburgh’s offense is one of the most potent in the NFL, and Roethlisberger is the leader. Bell and Brown are two of the best at their respective positions, and the team added up-and-coming tight end Ladarius Green to replace the retired Heath Miller.

If healthy, and that’s a big if after an injury-plagued 2015 season, Big Ben should make a case for MVP consideration.

Next: No. 7: Carson Palmer

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