BREAKING: Joe Burrow Candidly Speaks On Likely Losing Out On MVP Because of Bengals’ Struggles
Joe Burrow has put together a remarkable MVP-caliber season, but the Cincinnati Bengals’ record may ultimately undermine his chances of claiming the award. As the Bengals prepare for their must-win game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, they’ll also need help from the Kansas City Chiefs and New York Jets to secure the AFC’s final playoff spot.
In an interview with ESPN’s Cam Newton, Burrow reflected on his season and how the Bengals’ struggles have impacted his MVP bid. Newton highlighted Burrow’s elite performance—throwing for over 4,500 yards, 40 touchdowns, and fewer than 10 interceptions—a feat previously achieved only by Tom Brady in 2007 and Aaron Rodgers in 2011, both of whom won MVP. However, unlike those quarterbacks, who led their teams to a combined 31-1 record, the Bengals will fall short of 10 wins, leaving Burrow as an underdog for the award.
“I’m proud of the season I’ve had,” Burrow told Newton. “I’d love to win an MVP at some point in my career, but this year is probably not that year because of how the season has gone for us. I think I’m deserving, but the MVP usually goes to the quarterback of the best team, and that’s not us this year.”
Burrow also pointed out the impact of Cincinnati’s early-season struggles. “This year, I didn’t start off slow. I felt ready to go and playing well, but we just couldn’t find those wins early on. A lot of close games didn’t go our way, and that’s just how this season has been.”
"We have so many things in common." 😅
Joe Burrow with Cam Newton on his MVP-caliber play, the Bengals' season and facing the Steelers in Week 18 👀 pic.twitter.com/xqyFQiV810
— ESPN (@espn) January 4, 2025
Despite leading the league in passing yards and touchdowns while throwing three or more touchdowns in each of his last eight games, Burrow currently ranks third in MVP odds, trailing Buffalo’s Josh Allen and Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson. Both competitors have led their teams to outstanding seasons, giving them an edge over Burrow in the MVP race.
If the Bengals manage to secure a playoff spot, Burrow’s case could gain traction. However, a slow start to the season, an inconsistent defense, and the team’s record may ultimately prevent him from earning the NFL’s most prestigious individual honor this year.