Coming off an impressive Super Bowl-winning season, the Philadelphia Eagles are positioned once again as strong contenders for the championship. Their roster is a blend of talent that makes them one of the most formidable teams in the NFL. The buzz around individual accolades is rising, particularly concerning potential MVP candidates for the upcoming season. Recently, Bleacher Report highlighted several athletes who might be considered “sleeper” picks for the MVP title. Notably, the Eagles boast two players, Jalen Hurts, the quarterback, and running back Saquon Barkley, who stands out as the sole non-passer on this list of hopefuls.
Jalen Hurts, the team’s star quarterback, continues to be a figure in the MVP discussion, having shown his prowess in the previous season. He emerged as the fifth-highest-rated passer in the NFL, contributing to the Eagles’ success with a remarkable 32 touchdowns, although only 18 of those came through the air. This statistic is vital as it highlights the challenge he faces in gaining MVP traction, primarily due to being overshadowed by his team’s overall strength and the execution of plays like the “tush push,” which may not resonate well with voters. Despite this, Hurts’ previous performance, including leading the Eagles to the Super Bowl, positions him as a viable candidate once more.
However, the narrative surrounding Hurts isn’t entirely favorable. Criticism arises from his support from an exceptionally skilled roster, which can cast doubts on his individual abilities. Many have labeled him a “system quarterback,” a title that might detract from his individual achievements on the field. His journey in the league has been marked by challenges, such as a late-season injury during his previous campaign that diminished his MVP odds. Nevertheless, Hurts remains recognized for his significant contributions, and there’s anticipation surrounding what he can accomplish this season.
On the other hand, Saquon Barkley has emerged as another strong candidate for the MVP award. After an exceptional performance last season—where he rushed for over 2,000 yards and averaged 5.8 yards per carry—his chances appear promising. If Barkley can surpass Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing yardage record, he could potentially become the first running back to win the MVP since Adrian Peterson in 2012. His explosive gameplay and consistent productivity showcase his ability to change games, making him a compelling candidate for recognition.
Yet, the unspoken reality is that the MVP award typically leans towards quarterbacks, having favored them for the past 12 seasons. The dominance of passers in winning the accolade sets the stage for continued bias towards quarterbacks, thus complicating Barkley’s quest for MVP recognition. Despite this trend, Barkley’s capabilities and previous season’s achievements instill confidence that he remains a contender worthy of consideration. The Eagles’ strong offensive line further enhances his performance, positioning him effectively to shine amidst competition.
As the offseason progresses, the Eagles’ hopefuls are under the microscope regarding their potential to achieve individual accolades. While Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley face the challenge of overcoming the narrative that often sidelines non-quarterbacks for the MVP award, their past performances herald well for the upcoming NFL season. Whether it’s Hurts seeking to defy criticism as a “system quarterback” or Barkley aiming to make history, both players represent the Philadelphia Eagles’ continued ambition to dominate not only as a team but within the ranks of individual player accolades as well. The stage is set for an exhilarating season, with both athletes poised to leave a lasting mark on the league.
