NFL MVP Race Heats Up: Controversial Vote Draws Outrage
In a nail-biting finish to this year’s NFL MVP race, a surprising vote for Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has sparked widespread debate.
The Controversial Vote
This season, the MVP award saw a fiercely competitive battle between Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams and Drake Maye of the New England Patriots. Stafford ultimately secured the award with 366 points, narrowly edging out Maye, who finished with 361 points. However, it was a singular vote for Herbert that left fans furious.
Who Cast the Deciding Vote?
Sam Monson, formerly associated with Pro Football Focus, revealed via X (formerly Twitter) that he was the lone voter to endorse Herbert for the MVP. Critics quickly condemned Monson’s decision, viewing it as a "wasted vote" in a tightly contested race.
Monson’s Defense
In response to the backlash, Monson tweeted:
"The guy had the worst offensive line in the NFL all season, and despite that, he was working miracles in almost every single game."
Monson elaborated on his reasoning during his podcast, “Check The Mic with Steve Palazzolo & Sam Monson,” stating he ranked Stafford second and Maye third. He attributed his vote to Herbert’s struggles with injuries on the offensive line, specifically the loss of key players Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt.
A Closer Look at the Quarterbacks
2025 NFL Quarterback Statistics
The performances of each quarterback this season were noteworthy:
| Player | Passing Yards | Passing Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew Stafford | 3,727 | 26 | 13 |
| Drake Maye | 4,394 | 31 | 8 |
| Justin Herbert | 4,707 | 46 | 9 |
| Josh Allen | 3,668 | 25 | 10 |
Key Arguments for Each Candidate
-
Matthew Stafford:
- Academic statistics that support consistency.
- Led the Rams to key victories.
-
Drake Maye:
- Impressive passing yardage and fewer interceptions.
- Enhanced performance under pressure.
- Justin Herbert:
- Resilient performance despite a weakened offensive line.
- Demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating difficult situations.
Fan Reactions
The reaction to Monson’s vote has been overwhelmingly negative, with fans pointing out that his choice has "cost Maye the MVP." Notably, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy expressed his disdain:
"Imagine thinking you outsmarted every other human who watched football. Only cost Maye the MVP."
Maye, on the other hand, remains focused on the upcoming Super Bowl, while Stafford confirmed he will return for the 2026 season during his acceptance speech.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL MVP voting has ignited discussions around the definition of "value" in football, especially regarding critical player circumstances. As the Super Bowl approaches, all eyes will be on the field to see if Maye can further solidify his credentials, while the debate over Monson’s vote continues to stir up emotions.
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