Former Saints running back Reggie Bush has his own opinions on who should be the next NFL MVP, something that has been a subject of controversy.
The primary players being considered are Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen and Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. Also in consideration are quarterbacks Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals) and Jared Goff (Detroit Lions).
Perhaps controversially, Bush said he would eliminate another famous Louisiana name from the race. That is former LSU quarterback Burrow, who is up against the fact that the Bengals did not make the postseason.
“I would also put Lamar Jackson in there. I’m sorry, I have to take Joe Burrow out,” Bush said in an interview with Responsible Gambler. “If you don’t make the playoffs bro, you don’t get in this MVP conversation.”
Some would not take that comment kindly, considering that Burrow’s offensive line and the better part of his supporting cast failed him all season long.
Burrow himself was one of the league’s most successful passers, leading in multiple categories as he ended his season with a 70.6% completion rate, passing for 4,918 yards with 43 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
But, in a way, Bush does have a point in that it is very rare that a player who does not make the playoffs is ultimately named an MVP.
Bush is putting his money on Barkley, who has continued to thrive in the postseason.
“I’m going to go with Saquon. 2,000 yards is hard as hell, especially in this era right now in football where teams are just not running the football as much like that anymore,” Bush explained. “I love seeing the Eagles get back to that run game because I think that’s so important.”
It will be interesting to see how things ultimately shake out as the winner of the honor is set to be revealed on Feb. 6.