NFL Awards: The Race for Glory in 2023

We're officially through 16 weeks of the NFL season. It has been an eventful week filled with thrilling games and standout player performances. Now, let's take a closer look at the NFL awards. We will explore which players are leading the charge and who is hot on their heels!

MVP Race: Matt Stafford vs. Drake Maye

Matt Stafford: The Veteran's Resurgence

Matt Stafford has reasserted himself as a top MVP contender. He reminds the league just how dangerous he can be when healthy and confident. Stafford commands the offense with precision. He makes high-difficulty throws look routine and consistently delivers in clutch moments. His experience shines late in games, where his decision-making and calm presence lead to wins. What strengthens his case even more is how he elevates the production of those around him. He spreads the ball effectively, keeping defenses guessing.

Drake Maye: The Rising Star

On the other side of the race is Drake Maye. His emergence has been one of the most compelling stories of the season. For such a young quarterback to already be in MVP conversations speaks volumes about his talent and maturity. Maye displays elite arm strength and composure under pressure. He commands the offense with surprising confidence. He’s not just flashing potential; he’s producing consistently. The MVP debate here is a fascinating contrast between proven excellence and the thrill of a rising superstar. With the Rams losing to the Seahawks and a clutch SNF win for Maye and the Pats, the race seems closer than ever.

Coach of the Year: Mike Vrabel vs. Mike Macdonald

Mike Vrabel: The Steady Leader

Mike Vrabel finds himself in Coach of the Year discussions once again. He has guided his team through adversity with discipline and toughness. His teams are always prepared, physical, and difficult to play against, regardless of injuries or roster limitations. Vrabel’s ability to squeeze maximum effort out of his players is one of his defining traits. Close games, late-season pushes, and situational mastery all strengthen his case. He has built a culture that sustains success even when expectations fluctuate. The Pats look to capture the division in the coming weeks, which could settle the debate for Vrabel.

Mike Macdonald: The Innovator

Meanwhile, Mike Macdonald represents the league’s new wave of coaching excellence. His immediate impact has been undeniable. Smart scheming and aggressive adjustments pay dividends week after week. Macdonald’s defenses look fast, disciplined, and adaptable. They often dictate the flow of games. Players have clearly bought into his system, showing rapid development across the roster. His rise has shifted perceptions of what this team can be. The Coach of the Year race reflects a battle between established leadership and innovative evolution. With the Seahawks beating the Rams and taking the number one seed in the NFC, Mike Macdonald is making COY a very difficult decision.

Offensive Player of the Year: Jaxon Smith-Njigba vs. Puka Nacua

Jaxon Smith-Njigba: The Reliable Target

Jaxon Smith-Njigba has quietly become one of the most reliable offensive weapons in the league. His route-running is elite, creating consistent separation. He serves as a quarterback’s safety blanket. Smith-Njigba thrives in traffic, moves the chains, and excels in crucial moments. He doesn’t always rely on explosive plays, but his steady production drives offensive rhythm. His impact goes beyond the stat sheet. Defenses are forced to adjust coverage schemes to account for him.

Puka Nacua: The Game-Changer

Puka Nacua, however, brings a different kind of dominance. His physicality, yards after catch, and relentless motor make him nearly impossible to contain. Even when defenses know the ball is coming his way, Nacua finds ways to produce. He consistently flips field position and creates momentum-shifting plays. His blend of toughness and skill embodies his team’s offensive identity. The race between these two highlights efficiency versus explosiveness. Just a few weeks ago, it felt like JSN had this locked up. However, Puka has gone for 150+ yards in the last three weeks, making this race a close one.

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Tetairoa McMillan vs. Tyler Shough

Tetairoa McMillan: The Polished Rookie

Tetairoa McMillan has burst onto the scene, looking far more polished than most rookies at his position. His size and catch-radius immediately stand out. However, it’s his body control and reliability that separate him. McMillan has shown a knack for winning contested catches and delivering in high-leverage moments. He plays with confidence and composure, traits that typically take years to develop. His presence has already changed how defenses approach his team’s passing game. The Panthers are trending towards winning the division, and with Tet looking to hold down WR1 for the coming years, the Panthers are on the rise.

Tyler Shough: The Unexpected Leader

Tyler Shough has exceeded expectations at the quarterback position. He demonstrates strong decision-making, leadership, and an ability to adapt quickly at the professional level. Shough’s calm under pressure has helped stabilize the offense, especially in tight situations. He doesn’t force plays and understands how to manage the game effectively. For a rookie, his command of the offense has been impressive. An older Shough has proven to be reliable for an otherwise struggling Saints team. This race ultimately pits elite positional production against the premium value of quarterback play.

Defensive Dominance: Cleveland’s Historic Duo

Myles Garrett: The Frontrunner

The Cleveland Browns have established themselves as the league’s defensive standard, boasting favorites for both major defensive awards. Myles Garrett continues to be the frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year. He overwhelms offenses with his power, speed, and relentless pressure. Garrett consistently disrupts game plans and changes outcomes with single plays. His presence alone forces opposing teams to alter protection schemes.

Carson Schwesinger: The Rising Star

Alongside him, Carson Schwesinger has emerged as the Defensive Rookie of the Year favorite. His instincts, physicality, and awareness have allowed him to make an immediate impact. Schwesinger plays beyond his years, fitting seamlessly into Cleveland’s defensive identity. Together, Garrett and Schwesinger represent a rare combination of veteran dominance and rookie excellence. Their performances highlight why the Browns remain one of the most feared defenses in football.

Rocket TD Picks: A Christmas Miracle?

Once again, I have only picked one correct winner for the Rocket picks. Zach Charbonnet scored on Thursday night, but ultimately Mark Andrews was a dud pick.

It's Christmas, though! I could use a Christmas miracle with some of these picks because I haven't won in what feels like an eternity.

Jordan Addison is sitting at a 2-rocket multiplier right now. Let's pair him up with a player from one of the hottest teams in the league right now: the Denver Broncos.

Troy Franklin has been a beast. If you add him with Addison, we get a nice little 6.4x multiplier!

Happy Holidays! Hopefully, Santa can bless us with a nice touchdown gift!