Lamar Jackson Rumors: NFL Awards Voters Debating Ravens QB for MVP but Not All-Pro QB

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While Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is the favorite for MVP heading into the final week of the regular season, voters are torn on voting for Jackson for MVP but not as the All-Pro quarterback, per Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio.

Typically, the All-Pro votes leader directly correlates to the NFL MVP. Florio explained that this year, that might not be the case.

“Some voters, we’re told, are considering whether it’s appropriate for 2023 to vote for Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson as MVP, but not as the All-Pro quarterback,” Florio wrote. “Technically, it’s permissible. ‘Value’ (which isn’t defined) and, say, an assessment of All-Pro based on statistical achievement (there’s no specific guidance on All-Pro, either) could justify regarding Lamar as the MVP but someone else as the All-Pro quarterback.”

Florio also noted that when it comes to the MVP award, stats aren’t everything. Jackson is 14th in passing yards, fifth in passer rating and 10th in touchdowns.

He points to the 2011 MVP race as evidence, noting that New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees had the better stats by far, yet Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers took home the award because he had more value to his team.

It’s fair to say Jackson is one of—if not the most valuable player in the league this season. While his stats aren’t league-leading, he has willed Baltimore to a 13-3 record and an AFC North title.

Compared to other MVP hopefuls like San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, Jackson is arguably more important to the team’s success.