Picks for MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, and More
As we approach the midway point of the 2024 NFL season, it’s time to take stock of the league’s standout performers. From electrifying quarterbacks to dominant defensive players, the first half of the season has provided plenty of action and surprises. Here’s a look at the top contenders for the major NFL awards at midseason:
**Most Valuable Player (MVP): Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs**
It’s no surprise that Patrick Mahomes finds himself in the MVP conversation once again. The Kansas City Chiefs’ signal caller is having another stellar season, leading an offense that remains one of the most dangerous in the NFL. Mahomes has thrown for over 2,500 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just 5 interceptions in the first half of the season, all while guiding the Chiefs to a 7-1 record. His ability to make plays out of structure, combined with his elite decision-making and arm strength, keeps him as the frontrunner for the league’s highest individual honor.
While other quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts and Joe Burrow have had strong campaigns, Mahomes’ consistency and ability to carry his team—especially after losing key weapons in the offseason—cement his place at the top.
**Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY): Micah Parsons, EDGE, Dallas Cowboys**
There are few players as disruptive as Micah Parsons. The Dallas Cowboys linebacker has been a terror on opposing quarterbacks, recording 8 sacks and forcing multiple turnovers through the first eight games. His versatility—able to line up as an edge rusher, linebacker, or even drop back into coverage—makes him an incredibly valuable asset for the Cowboys defense. Parsons’ combination of speed, strength, and football IQ makes him a nightmare for offenses, and he has the ability to change the game on any given snap.
The competition is fierce, with players like T.J. Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers) and Maxx Crosby (Las Vegas Raiders) putting up impressive numbers as well, but Parsons’ all-around dominance puts him in the driver’s seat for DPOY at midseason.
**Coach of the Year (COY): Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins**
Mike McDaniel’s innovative offensive mind has led the Miami Dolphins to one of the most explosive offenses in NFL history. With the combination of Tua Tagovailoa’s efficient passing and the explosive playmaking ability of Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Raheem Mostert, McDaniel has orchestrated an attack that consistently puts up points in bunches. The Dolphins are 6-2 at the halfway mark, and McDaniel has proven himself as a master of maximizing his players’ strengths.
His ability to turn Miami into a perennial playoff contender—while keeping his offense dynamic and unpredictable—makes him a strong candidate for Coach of the Year honors. Other notable candidates include Kyle Shanahan (San Francisco 49ers), who has led his team to an 8-1 record, and Dan Campbell (Detroit Lions), who has transformed the Lions into NFC contenders.
**Offensive Player of the Year (OPOTY): Tyreek Hill, WR, Miami Dolphins**
Tyreek Hill is having a historic season. The Dolphins wide receiver is on pace to shatter numerous single-season receiving records, with over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns through just eight games. Hill’s game-breaking speed, combined with his ability to track deep passes and make defenders miss in space, makes him nearly impossible to stop.
While quarterbacks like Mahomes and Tua Tagovailoa will naturally get their share of MVP votes, Hill’s individual brilliance on a weekly basis puts him in the conversation for Offensive Player of the Year. He has been the most dominant wide receiver in the league and continues to put up numbers that defy belief.
### **Comeback Player of the Year: Joe Burrow, QB, Cincinnati Bengals**
After a rocky start to the season due to an offseason calf injury, Joe Burrow has returned to form and is playing at an elite level. The Cincinnati Bengals’ quarterback has led his team to a 5-3 record, throwing for over 2,300 yards and 18 touchdowns in the first half of the season. Burrow’s ability to bounce back after a rough start, combined with his leadership and poise, makes him the clear frontrunner for Comeback Player of the Year honors.
Other strong contenders include DeMar Hamlin (Buffalo Bills), who has returned to the field after his life-threatening cardiac arrest last season, and Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers), who has stayed healthy and is playing at a high level after injury-riddled seasons.
**Rookie of the Year (ROTY): Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons**
Bijan Robinson has taken the NFL by storm in his rookie season. The Atlanta Falcons running back has demonstrated the kind of explosive talent that has already made him one of the league’s most exciting young players. With over 700 rushing yards and 7 total touchdowns, Robinson has been a focal point of the Falcons offense, often carrying the team with his big-play ability.
While other rookies, such as quarterback Bryce Young and wide receiver Jordan Addison, have shown promise, Robinson’s impact has been immediate and transformative, making him the favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
**Most Improved Player: Jared Goff, QB, Detroit Lions**
Jared Goff’s resurgence with the Detroit Lions has been one of the most pleasant surprises of the season. After a strong 2023 campaign, Goff has elevated his play even further in 2024, leading the Lions to a 6-2 record and ranking among the league’s top quarterbacks in passing yards and touchdowns. Goff’s ability to lead the Lions’ offense with poise, while minimizing mistakes, has been key to their success.
Goff has proved he can win in big moments and take Detroit to new heights, making him the frontrunner for Most Improved Player at midseason.
**Conclusion**
As we look ahead to the second half of the season, many of these players will continue to battle for their respective awards. While there are plenty of surprises, the players mentioned above have proven themselves as the best of the best so far. With many storylines yet to unfold, the race for the 2024 NFL season’s individual honors is far from over.
