The race for the coveted 2023 NFL MVP award is reaching a fever pitch, and according to FanDuel Sportsbook, all eyes are on San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. Boasting the best odds at -210, Purdy is poised to clinch this season’s NFL MVP honor. Meanwhile, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson closely follows with the second-best odds at +470.
Former All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman has added fuel to the MVP debate, expressing his belief that Purdy deserves the honor over Jackson. Sherman argues that statistics play a pivotal role in determining the most valuable player, and Purdy’s impressive tally of 31 total touchdowns, including 29 passing touchdowns—leading the league in both categories—sets him apart.
Sherman, speaking on FOX Sports 1’s “Undisputed,” pointed out that Jackson’s numbers this season don’t match the exceptional standards set in his previous MVP-winning campaign. Jackson currently ranks outside the top five in total touchdowns, passing yards, and passer rating.
The cornerback emphasized the importance of statistical performance in the MVP race, suggesting that unless Jackson significantly enhances his stats in the final three games, he sees little reason to reconsider his stance.
As Jackson faces the formidable San Francisco 49ers defense in Week 16—an unit ranked second in the NFL in points per game allowed with an impressive 16.7 average—the MVP showdown intensifies, promising a clash of titans in the pursuit of football’s most prestigious individual accolade.