Fran Tarkenton Division
8. Deshaun Watson (LW: 9)
The Texans are one win away from clinching a playoff spot despite having started 0-3. Watson isn’t going to get any MVP consideration and rightfully so, but he’s been the key cog in what has become a contender in the AFC.
7. Aaron Rodgers (LW: 8)
Rodgers has only thrown a single interception, but the film shows a very good player who hasn’t been his usual great. The Packers are missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season, and with a new coaching staff coming in, Rodgers should be getting a new lease on his career.
6. Tom Brady (LW: 3)
Brady has fallen out of the Joe Montana division for the first time. Brady always gets the benefit of the doubt because he’s Brady. That said, his play has been average this season with no signs that it’s turning around. That ugly, floating interception he threw to Joe Haden is a perfect example of his campaign.
5. Russell Wilson (LW: 7)
Wilson has thrown for 31 touchdowns despite having an injured Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett as his main targets. He’s also been under constant duress behind an improved but leaky offensive line. The Seahawks are one win away from the postseason, and it’s chiefly due to Wilson.