Can Joe Burrow Win MVP? Three Dark Horse Playoff Teams For 2025 NFL Season

David

3 min read

Post on Sep 07, 2025

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Can Joe Burrow Win MVP? Three Dark Horse Playoff Teams for 2025 NFL Season

The 2024 NFL season is still unfolding, but the whispers about the 2025 campaign are already beginning. One of the biggest questions looming large is: can Joe Burrow finally secure the coveted NFL MVP award? And beyond the Bengals' star quarterback, which teams could surprise us and make a playoff push next year? Let's dive into these burning questions.

Joe Burrow's MVP Chances: A Realistic Assessment

Joe Burrow has undeniably established himself as one of the league's elite quarterbacks. His arm talent, leadership, and clutch performances have captivated fans and analysts alike. However, winning the MVP is a monumental task, requiring not only individual brilliance but also team success.

Factors Favoring Burrow:

• Offensive Firepower: The Bengals boast a potent offensive arsenal, with talented receivers like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. A consistently high-scoring offense significantly boosts a quarterback's MVP chances.
• Improved Offensive Line: The Bengals' offensive line has been a point of concern in the past. Any significant improvement in pass protection would greatly enhance Burrow's performance and reduce the risk of injury – a crucial factor for MVP consideration.
• Coaching Stability: Zac Taylor has proven himself as a capable head coach, building a strong offensive system that suits Burrow's strengths. Consistency in coaching can contribute to consistent team performance.

Challenges for Burrow:

• The AFC's Intense Competition: The AFC is arguably the toughest conference in the NFL. Burrow will face stiff competition from quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson, all vying for the same award.
• Staying Healthy: Burrow's durability is paramount. Any significant injury could derail his MVP campaign before it even gains traction.
• Team Performance: Individual brilliance alone isn't enough. The Bengals need to secure a high seed in the playoffs, showcasing consistent team success throughout the season.

Conclusion on Burrow's MVP Prospects: Burrow certainly possesses the talent to win the MVP. However, he needs a healthy season, stellar team performance, and a bit of luck to outshine the other exceptional quarterbacks in the AFC. It's a challenging but not impossible goal.

Three Dark Horse Playoff Contenders for the 2025 NFL Season

Predicting the NFL playoffs is a fool's errand, but some teams are poised to make a significant leap next season. Here are three dark horse contenders:

1. The Detroit Lions: The Lions showed immense promise in 2024, showcasing a dynamic offense and a developing defense. With another year of experience under their belts and potential offseason additions, they could easily challenge for a playoff spot. Their young core is brimming with talent and their coaching staff is well-respected.

2. The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons have made significant strides in recent years. A strong running game, a developing passing attack, and a solid defense lay the foundation for a playoff push. Their success hinges on continued quarterback development and solidifying their secondary.

3. The New York Jets: The Jets' fortunes hinge heavily on Aaron Rodgers' performance and his overall health. If Rodgers plays at a high level and the young talent around him continues to develop, the Jets could make a serious run at the playoffs. The key lies in consistency and improved play calling.

Conclusion: The 2025 NFL season promises to be highly competitive. While Joe Burrow's MVP chances are promising, numerous factors need to align. Meanwhile, several teams beyond the usual suspects are poised to make a surprise playoff run, adding another layer of excitement to the upcoming season. Keep your eyes peeled for these potential dark horse contenders!