Top 10 non-quarterback NFL MVP candidates for 2020

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 29: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers during the second half during their game against the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

7 of 10

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – DECEMBER 29: Michael Thomas #13 of the New Orleans Saints during the first half during their game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

4. WR Michael Thomas, New Orleans Saints

While the previously-mentioned Julio Jones at the Atlanta Falcons may be the league’s premier wide receiver for the past nine years, certainly the hot name at the position these days is New Orleans Saints’ standout Michael Thomas. A second-round pick by the team in 2016, he comes off a monster year in which he set a new standard for receptions in a season. The former Ohio State Buckeye caught a record 149 passes, eclipsing the mark of Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, who caught 143 balls for the Colts in 2002.

Thomas also led the league with 1,725 receiving yards in 2019 and would score nine touchdowns. It didn’t seem to matter whether it was Drew Brees or Teddy Bridgewater throwing the football, Thomas found a way to take add change. Those a 149 grabs came on 185 targets, meaning he held onto the ball an impressive 80.5 percent.

The four-year pro was named the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year in 2019. But is it realistic to think he could top that this season and earn league MVP honors? It’s impressive to note that Thomas’ production has increased each year he’s been in the league when it comes to catches and receiving yards.

Home/NFL