The fine folks over at DraftKings Sports Book released their opening odds on this year’s favorites for 2021 NFL MVP and the Chargers’ own Justin Herbert landed among the top 10 with +2000 odds, good for ninth and tied with the Cardinals Kyler Murray.
The eight players currently with better odds (from top to bottom) include Patrick Mahomes (+450), Aaron Rodgers (+900), Josh Allen (+1100), Tom Brady (+1500), Matthew Stafford (+1500), Lamar Jackson (+1600), Russell Wilson (+1600), and Dak Prescott (+1700).
Best bet to win league MVP in 2021 is _______? pic.twitter.com/EG6x1IAFcs
— PFF (@PFF) May 24, 2021
Of all the eight players listed above him, only five threw for more touchdowns in 2020 than Herbert’s 31. Those players were Mahomes, Rodgers, Allen, Brady, and Wilson. Of those same players, only three threw for more yards (Mahomes, Brady, Allen) than Herbert’s 4,336.
You’re going to hear a lot of talk about an expected regression for Herbert in his sophomore season. Part of that thinking comes from the fact that he’ll be playing with his second offensive coordinator in as many seasons, but those who have watched the tape and have seen just how quickly Herbert acclimated to the professional game after being thrown to the wolves against Chiefs last year likely have little doubt that he can master the new offense just as quickly.
What are everyone’s thoughts on these odds? I think it’s safe to say everyone believes Herbert should be a MVP candidate, but how high do you think he deserves to be? Is he right where he deserves? Are there any players above him that look out of place? I want to hear your thoughts.