How they voted: Josh Allen wins AP NFL MVP award
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was awarded the Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the 2024 season, narrowly edging out Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in one of the closest MVP races in recent history. Allen received 27 first-place votes, while Jackson garnered 23.
The MVP voting process involves a ranked-choice system, where voters rank their top candidates. Allen accumulated 383 points from 27 first-place votes, 22 second-place votes, and one third-place vote. Jackson closely followed with 362 points, derived from 23 first-place votes, 26 second-place votes, and one fourth-place vote.
This outcome is notable because Jackson was named the first-team All-Pro quarterback, an honor typically aligned with MVP winners. Allen's MVP win, despite not being a first-team All-Pro, marks a rare occurrence in NFL history, previously seen only with John Elway in 1987 and Steve McNair in 2003.
Statistically, Jackson had a standout season with 4,172 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and 915 rushing yards. Allen's performance included 3,731 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 531 rushing yards. Despite Jackson's superior individual statistics, the Bills' team success, including a 13-win season and an AFC East title, may have influenced voters in Allen's favor.
The close nature of the vote and the divergence between All-Pro selections and MVP voting have sparked discussions about the criteria and consistency in award selections. Analysts and fans alike have expressed surprise and engaged in debates regarding the decision.