New England Patriots: 5 Most Likely Super Bowl 51 MVP Winners

4.) Julian Edelman

Due to the injury to tight end Rob Gronkowski, wide receiver Julian Edelman has emerged as the No.1 option in the passing game for the Patriots. In what is expected to be a high-scoring game, Edelman will likely be the receiver on the Patriots that is targeted the most.

In the playoffs, Edelman has totaled eight receptions in each game. Also, he has been able to eclipse the 100-yard receiving mark in each game. One of the things that will hold Edelman back of winning an MVP is, of course, Brady. If Brady plays a clean game and Edelman is the receipt of some of his passes, Brady would likely win the MVP. However, if Brady has a turnover or two, Edelman might be able to steal the award from him with a big game.

Edelman might not be considered a No.1 wide receiver in the NFL, but he has been great for the Patriots. In the regular season, Edelman totaled 98 receptions and 1,106 receiving yards. Those are certainly numbers that many players dream about. If Edelman is able to play like he has in the playoffs so far, he will certainly be the MVP conversation in a Patriots win.