Seven teams still waiting on a Super Bowl‑era MVP

Seven franchises enter 2026 still chasing their first Super Bowl‑era Most Valuable Player. That list — Arizona, Houston, Jacksonville, New Orleans, New York (Jets), Philadelphia and Tampa Bay — is a who’s‑who of clubs that have produced stars but not the league’s top individual honor. With roster turnover and shifting narratives every season, the MVP conversation can open quickly if a player combines elite performance with team success.

#Why this could be the year

MVP voting typically rewards standout statistical seasons that translate into wins. Several of these teams arrive in 2026 with clearer casts around their top players, plus young offensive pieces and evolving supporting talent. That mix increases the odds one of their leaders can mount a credible MVP campaign if health and team outcomes align.

#Top contenders by team

Arizona — Tyler Shough: If Shough takes hold as the Cardinals’ long‑term starter and pairs efficiency with a power‑play offense, he could emerge into MVP discussion as a breakthrough young signal‑caller.
Houston — Will Anderson Jr.: Defensive players rarely win MVP, but Anderson’s game‑changing upside means a transcendent season from him would be impossible to ignore in the narrative-driven MVP race.
Jacksonville — Trevor Lawrence: Lawrence remains the most obvious MVP candidate among these clubs if he produces elite numbers and the Jaguars turn in a top‑seed season.
New Orleans — Baker Mayfield: Mayfield’s presence gives the Saints a veteran option capable of leading a high‑profile offense; a late surge or historically efficient campaign could vault him into contention.
New York Jets — Breece Hall: While the MVP award skews to quarterbacks, a dominant, touchdown‑heavy season from a workhorse running back like Hall coupled with team success could generate an unusual but compelling case.
Philadelphia — Jalen Hurts: Hurts is already in the conversation each year he stays healthy; another season with MVP‑level production and wins would make him the likeliest Eagle to finally claim the honor.
Tampa Bay — Jeremiyah Love: A lesser‑known name on this list, Love could push into the spotlight in the right offensive environment and become a surprise entrant in the MVP debate.

#What to watch in 2026

Key markers for MVP campaigns will be individual efficiency, big‑play production and, crucially, team record. Injuries, supporting casts and schedule also shape voters’ perceptions — so even elite units need context. For these seven franchises, a breakthrough MVP season would likely coincide with a step‑up in overall team performance.