NFL award finalists: Lamar, Allen among 5 MVP nominees again

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen and Baltimore Ravens passer Lamar Jackson headline the MVP finalists for a second consecutive season, the Associated Press revealed Thursday.

The other three nominees for MVP are Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, and Detroit Lions signal-caller Jared Goff.

Jackson appears to be the favorite to win MVP for a second consecutive season after he was named first-team All-Pro over Allen earlier this year. The Ravens quarterback set new career highs in passing touchdowns, passing yards, and passer rating while also leading the Ravens to a division-winning 12-5 record. Allen won 13 games while compiling 40 total touchdowns to six interceptions.

The two quarterbacks recently met in the divisional round with Allen and the Bills emerging victorious 27-25.

Here's how the two likely finalists stack up:

Among the other nominees, Barkley produced a 2,005-yard season on the ground, falling 100 yards shy of tying Eric Dickerson's NFL record. Meanwhile, Burrow led the league in passing yards (4,918) and passing scores (43), while Goff ranked second in passing yards (4,629) and led the Lions to an NFC-best 15-2 record.

Finalists for seven other categories were also unveiled. The winners will be announced Feb. 6 during the NFL Honors broadcast (9 p.m. ET).

Below are the front-runners for the remaining AP awards:

Offensive Player of the Year

Barkley, Burrow, and Jackson appear again while Bengals receiver Chase posted the receiving triple crown in 2024, leading the NFL in receptions (127), yards (1,708), and touchdowns (17). Ravens running back Henry scored more rushing touchdowns than any other player and his 1,921 rushing yards were second only to Barkley.

Defensive Player of the Year

Surtain is the only player from the secondary represented in the finalists. He led the Broncos to the No. 3 defense in points allowed this past season while also notching four interceptions, which he returned for a league-best 132 yards. One of his interceptions was also brought back for a pick-6.

Hendrickson produced a league-high 17.5 sacks, while Garrett's seeking his second straight Defensive Player of the Year nod after a 14-sack campaign. Watt's case is leading the NFL in forced fumbles (six) and 11.5 sacks.

Meanwhile, Baun had a breakout season for the Eagles as their middle linebacker, putting up 151 tackles, 3.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and an interception.

Offensive Rookie of the Year

Defensive Rookie of the Year

Coach of the Year

Assistant Coach of the Year

Comeback Player of the Year