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5 NFL MVP candidates flying under the radar

By Rucker Haringey

Matt Ryan #2, Atlanta Falcons (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
Matt Ryan #2, Atlanta Falcons (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons
TAMPA, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 29: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Underrated NFL MVP candidates in 2020

1. Matt Ryan

The arrival of Tom Brady in Tampa Bay has dominated the news cycle in the NFC South this offseason. That doesn’t mean that he’ll be the best quarterback in the division in 2020.

In particular, Ryan seems to be well positioned for a big season. He’s been remarkly consistent during his NFL career, but the quality of the defense supporting him has waxed and waned. If the Falcons defense can hold their own, this team could be headed towards double-digit wins once again.

If that happens, you can safely assume that Ryan is putting up big numbers from the pocket. He is not a dynamic athlete by any stretch of the imagination, but his ability to stand tall in the pocket and hit receivers in stride makes him a very dangerous quarterback.

To win an MVP Award, Ryan will need to throw for more than 5,000 yards for the first time in his career. Having weapons like Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley on the outside puts that within his grasp.

Next. NFL Draft grades: Did the Falcons get Ryan enough help?. dark

If he puts up big numbers and Atlanta wins the NFC South then Ryan is going to have a very strong MVP case. There’s no reason to shy away from him at +5000. He’s the best long shot to back at this point in the offseason.

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