The 2024 NFL season saw intense debate surrounding the Josh Allen MVP debate 2024 as he and Lamar Jackson remained the chief contenders for the Most Valuable Player award. Ultimately, Josh Allen claimed his first MVP trophy after edging out Jackson in their playoff encounter.
Despite Allen’s triumph, statistical analyses showed Lamar Jackson holding the advantage in many key categories, keeping the discussion about their relative standing alive. As the 2025 season approaches, PFSN ranked the quarterbacks among the NFL’s top 100 players, with Jackson narrowly leading Allen.
Contrasting Team Situations Shaped Their Performances Last Season
The two quarterbacks had very different team contexts throughout the year. While the Buffalo Bills lost significant offensive weapons like Stefon Diggs, the Baltimore Ravens bolstered their lineup by adding Derrick Henry. This roster shift helped Jackson put up dominant numbers.
Lamar Jackson amassed 4,172 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, outpacing Allen’s 3,731 yards and 28 touchdown passes. On the ground, Allen contributed significantly with 531 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, but Jackson’s rushing stats were even more impressive, delivering 915 yards and four touchdowns.
Why Josh Allen’s Leadership and Efficiency Earned MVP Honors
Despite less statistical output, Allen’s ability to manage mistakes and elevate his team’s performance proved critical. His reduced turnovers and leadership helped the Buffalo Bills reach the AFC Championship Game, securing his MVP win and the fourth spot on PFSN’s top player list.
PFSN recognized Allen’s achievements, stating,
“Despite lacking an elite group of weapons, Allen consistently moved the ball downfield. His 8.7 average depth of target ranked 13th, and he finished third in EPA per dropback (+0.26).”
—PFSN Analysis
Furthermore, they highlighted his dual-threat capabilities, noting,
“Allen racked up 46 total touchdowns on the year, and his combination of arm strength, mobility, and improved decision-making made him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the NFL.”
—PFSN Analysis
The most remarkable change in Allen’s game was his newfound maturity, as he curtailed risky plays and focused on taking care of the football, shaking off a reputation for recklessness.
This growth was emphasized by comments that,
“Allen minimized mistakes last season, throwing just six interceptions in the regular season, the lowest total of his career. His leadership and playmaking ability were central to Buffalo’s offensive success and have expectations as high as ever in Upstate New York.”
—PFSN Analysis
Lamar Jackson’s Statistical Dominance and Continued Elite Status
Although Allen won MVP, Jackson remains an elite quarterback in the league. Having secured his second MVP the previous year, Jackson’s performance still positioned him at the top of PFSN’s rankings, finishing first ahead of Allen.
PFSN highlighted Jackson’s improved passing skills, noting,
“Jackson’s growth as a passer stood out, as he ranked first in yards per attempt (8.8) and posted a league-best EPA per dropback of +0.30. He also finished first in our QB+ metric and had a very solid case to be considered the league’s MVP.”
—PFSN Analysis
Jackson’s historic passer rating of 119.6 reinforces his status as the ideal dual-threat quarterback. PFSN further explained,
“His 9.3 average depth of target (fourth in NFL) highlights his willingness to push the ball downfield and challenge defenses vertically, even without elite talent supporting him. His 915 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns added another layer to his dominance, making him the engine of the Ravens’ offense.”
—PFSN Analysis
Narrow Margins Define Their Rivalry and What’s Next for 2025
The differences between Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are minimal and often come down to slight variations in statistical measures and team performance. Both stand out as top quarterbacks in the NFL, with their future success closely linked to playoff outcomes.
In the 2025 season, both quarterbacks will aim for their first Super Bowl appearance, with the possibility that their continued rivalry and intersecting paths will once again shape the NFL’s biggest stage. This ongoing competition ensures that the Josh Allen MVP debate 2024 will remain a focal point as fans and analysts watch their every move.