2025 NFL: Early MVP Longshot Bets
With the 2025 NFL season approaching, it's an opportune time to explore some longshot candidates for the MVP award. While quarterbacks generally dominate this accolade, identifying under-the-radar players can potentially yield significant returns. Here are five quarterbacks with longer odds, in no particular order, who could make a surprising run for the MVP title this season.Odds courtesy Draft Kings. 1. Bo Nix (Denver Broncos) +3500 Bo Nix enters his second NFL season after a promising rookie year with the Denver Broncos. He led the team to a 10-win season and a playoff berth, setting multiple franchise records along the way. Nix's familiarity with head coach Sean Payton's system and the potential for an improved supporting cast could position him as a dark horse MVP candidate. The Broncos have made strategic offseason moves to bolster their offense, aiming to support Nix's development. The addition of tight end Evan Engram provides a versatile weapon in the passing game, while there's speed-to-burn with returning receivers like Marvin Mims Jr. and Devaughn Vele. Denver used second round draft capital on running back RJ Harvey and he represents an upgrade in the backfield, perhaps relieving some of the pressure on Nix. With these enhancements, Denver's offense is poised to be more dynamic, potentially elevating Nix's performance and MVP prospects. 2. Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams) +3500 Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford aims to recapture the form that led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season. With one of the league's strongest receiving corps and a rock-solid offensive line, Stafford has the tools to orchestrate a high-powered offense. A resurgence in performance could position him as a dark horse in the MVP race, even as he enters the twilight of his career. The Rams have focused on strengthening their offensive line to protect Stafford, re-signing guards Kevin Dotson and Jonah Jackson. Additionally, the acquisition of wide receiver DaVante Adams and tight end Terrance Ferguson will compliment Puka Nacua in the passing game, enhancing the Rams' offensive versatility and likely boosting Stafford's numbers. 3. Drake Maye (New England Patriots) +4500 Drake Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, showed flashes of potential during his rookie season with the New England Patriots. After taking over as the starting quarterback, Maye demonstrated his ability to lead the offense and by all accounts is ready to make the jump to 'household name' status in 2025. The Patriots have made significant offseason moves to support Maye's development. The acquisition of wide receiver Stefon Diggs provides a proven playmaker, while the additions of offensive linemen Morgan Moses and Garrett Bradbury aim to bolster pass protection. With these enhancements and the return of offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Maye is well-positioned to take a significant step forward in his second season. 4. Geno Smith (Las Vegas Raiders) +15000 The biggest longshot on our list, Geno Smith's move to the Las Vegas Raiders presents a fresh start for the seasoned quarterback. After a commendable stint with the Seattle Seahawks, Smith brings experience and poise to the Raiders' offense. The Raiders have undergone significant changes, hiring Pete Carroll as head coach and Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator while also adding game-breaking running back Ashton Jeanty in the draft. These changes, along with the addition of offensive lineman Alex Cappa and wide receiver Jack Bech, aim to revitalize the Raiders' offense. If Smith can effectively integrate into this new system and lead the team to success, he could emerge as a surprising MVP contender. 5. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers) +3000 Brock Purdy enters the 2025 season looking to rebound after a challenging 2024 campaign. With a year of experience under his belt and a favorable schedule ahead, Purdy has the opportunity to lead the 49ers back to playoff contention. The 49ers have the easiest strength of schedule in the league, with opponents having a combined .415 winning percentage in 2024. This favorable schedule, coupled with a healthy roster and a strong supporting cast, positions Purdy to potentially elevate his performance and re-enter the MVP conversation.
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