The MVP debate was one of the hottest discussions around the NFL going into Week 18, with most believing Drake Maye's and Matthew Stafford's performances in the season finale would be the deciding factor.
Unfortunately, both the Patriots and Rams won in dominant fashion, so there wasn't a clear favorite to emerge. But as New England fans know, much of the statistics are on Maye's side, even when looking at common opponents, yet it might not matter unless the MVP voters adopt the true meaning of the acronym, as JJ Watt did.
When asked for his opinion after the conclusion of the late afternoon games, the former defensive end, now turned color commentator, praised Stafford for his production this season but acknowledged the true meaning of most valuable player, which favors Maye.
Finally someone understands the true meaning of the acronym https://t.co/t0R3UbmXej pic.twitter.com/AgFykN3xnc
— Sara Marshall (@smarshxo) January 5, 2026
Because what should the award mean?
It should go to the player who performs at a high level and elevates their team because they're on the field. Stafford is talented, but with the stellar offense he has around him, plenty of quarterbacks could be swapped in, and the Rams are still playoff contenders.
The same cannot be said if Maye were replaced in New England.
The NFL should live by the true meaning of MVP, rather than making it a popularity contest
The Rams have consistently been a playoff contender since Stafford was traded to the team in 2021, including a Super Bowl win over the Bengals at the end of that season. They have only made his job easier in the years since, including drafting wide receiver Puka Nacua and running back Kyren Williams, and adding Davante Adams in free agency this past year.
He has been set up for success, yet hasn't been considered an MVP candidate until this year, when his offensive roster has arguably been the most stacked. That makes Watt's point even more valid, since a backup quarterback with solid talent could still lead the Rams to wins.
The same cannot be said about removing Maye from the starting lineup.
You'd think that was the origin of what the MVP award was in the NFL, but it's strayed so far from what it once meant that it has now become a popularity contest or, in this case, potentially rewarding a 17-year veteran with a lifetime achievement award.
Considering bettors have now made Stafford the favorite, it seems inevitable that he will win, regardless of how impressive Maye was this season with far less to work with. The only fortunate thing is that the Patriots are in the playoffs and could go far, plus they have a young quarterback with a high ceiling that can lead them to long-term success.