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NFL MVP stock watch: Patrick Mahomes still the pace-setter

By Dustin Baker

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 22: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on during the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 22, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 22: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on during the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 22, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /
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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 19: Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals reacts in the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on November 19, 2020 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 19: Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals reacts in the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on November 19, 2020 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

5. Kyler Murray, QB (Arizona Cardinals)

Last Week’s Ranking: Unranked

Highest Ranking of Season: Unranked

2020 Stats: 2,644 Passing Yards, 19 Passing TDs, 8 INTs, 68.3% Comp, 98.7 Passer Rating, 619 Rushing Yards, 10 Rushing TDs

Statistically speaking, Dalvin Cook deserves to reside in this No. 5 spot as he has for the last couple of weeks. Cook is leading the NFL in touchdowns and rushing yards per game. For him, the problem is that the Minnesota Vikings are 4-6 despite his best efforts. A running back’s team must be on a playoff trend in order for the man to win the league’s MVP award.

Therefore, Kyler Murray makes his season debut on the Stock Watch. Murray had a Heisman moment against the Buffalo Bills in Week 10, and that last-minute pass to DeAndre Hopkins slapped Murray onto MVP consideration lists.

Based solely on his passing acumen, Murray is not an MVP candidate. With his rushing tendencies, however, Murray is on the map. His 2020 season is reminiscent of Lamar Jackson for last year, a season in which Jackson grabbed the MVP award.

The Cardinals lost in Week 11 to an angry Seattle Seahawks team, so the perception might be a bit strange for Murray to join the ranks thereafter. The 23-year-old is on pace to rush for 990 yards and 16 TDs. That’s in addition to a 30-touchdown rate aerially.

Are you onboard yet?

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