The Top 3 Non-Traditional NFL MVPs to Look Out For

Typically, the NFL Most Valuable Player award is given to the best QB, although RB has also been known to be a popular position for the coveted MVP award over the years. We have to go as far back as 1986 to see a player at neither of those positions being named MVP. That essentially means that it doesn’t always go to the best player but to the QB (or at times, RB) who has led his team to success.

Two RB’s won in 2005 and 2006, but since then, it has largely been QBs, with Adrian Peterson breaking the trend in 2012.

Outside of Peterson, we’ve seen former Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning win four times. The Green Packers’ Aaron Rodgers, and the New England Patriots’ Tom Brady each win twice. The other two years were won by the Atlanta Falcons’ Matt Ryan and the Carolina Panthers’ Cam Newton.

MVP is always a cause for intrigue among fans, especially those who enjoy a wager on the game. Having a flutter on the NFL, in general, is becoming an increasingly popular pastime among fans who like to add an extra degree of excitement during the game (like buffalo sauce on wings isn’t hot enough?). Live betting on the NFL, in particular, is attracting the attention of fans and sites such as Betsson have recognized the phenomenon only too well, providing odds on numerous sports.

Fans will likely be betting on a QB to win this season but, while it remains the most likely position to be named MVP, there are a few players with an outside chance. Here are the top 3:

1. Luke Kuechly, LB- Carolina Panthers

Kuechly is among the best players in the game any time he is on the filed. Concussions have been his downfall but, when healthy, he consistently dominates. He’s certainly the MVP on a team that has had its share of ups and downs this season.

He leads the team in tackles, delisted playing 1.5 fewer games than his teammates on the defensive side of the ball.

2. Marshon Lattimore, CB- New Orleans Saints
The rookie cornerback has been exactly as advertised. The pass defense, which has been consistently among the league’s worst in recent years, has improved dramatically with Lattimore’s presence.

It begs the question: why do teams even bother passing against him? According to Pro Football Focus, QBs may as well as throw the football in the dirt than challenge Lattimore.

3. Micha Hyde, S- Buffalo Bills

The off-season pickup currently ties for second in the NFL with five interceptions, four of which came in a four-shame stretch. He already has two more than his previous high. Could he go and match the team’s post-merger record of nine, most recently achieved in 2009 by Jairus Byrd?

It hasn’t been a case of luck, either; Hyde has always put himself in the right position to make a play. If the Bills should end their 17- year playoff drought, Hyde would be in with a shot.