Former NFL MVP Chooses $260M Quarterback Over Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen

As the NFL playoff race heats up in Week 16, the spotlight is firmly on the league’s top quarterbacks. Patrick Mahomes has the Kansas City Chiefs positioned as the AFC’s frontrunner, with Josh Allen’s Buffalo Bills close behind, ready to pounce. Meanwhile, Lamar Jackson continues to prove why he’s a force to be reckoned with, leading the Baltimore Ravens toward a playoff berth as the AFC’s No. 5 seed. Amidst this competitive landscape, a bold proclamation from former NFL MVP Cam Newton has set the sports world abuzz.

Speaking on ESPN’s First Take, Newton unequivocally declared Lamar Jackson as the best quarterback in the league today. “You must watch what you say about Lamar Jackson,” he told Stephen A. Smith. “Respectfully, I’m taking Lamar Jackson over any other quarterback in the NFL.” Newton wasn’t just making a casual endorsement; he criticized the double standards surrounding Jackson, particularly when compared to quarterbacks like Josh Allen. For Newton, Jackson isn’t just an elite player—he’s in a league of his own.

Newton’s endorsement carries significant weight, especially considering Jackson’s recent performances. Armed with a $260 million contract, Jackson is proving he’s worth every penny. Despite his deal being surpassed by others in terms of average annual value, Jackson continues to shine, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities and keeping the Ravens in contention. Newton emphasized that Jackson’s game right now surpasses not only Mahomes and Allen but also other notable quarterbacks like Jared Goff.

Statistics seem to back Newton’s claims. According to Pro Football Network’s QB+ metric, which evaluates quarterbacks based on critical factors like performance under pressure, third-down success, and clutch plays, Jackson currently leads the pack. In Week 16, Jackson earned an A+ grade with a near-perfect score of 99.8, outshining Allen (93.2) and leaving Mahomes trailing far behind at 82.9.

While the MVP debate rages on, Newton’s endorsement serves as a reminder of Jackson’s impact on the game. Whether or not Jackson clinches another MVP title this season, his ability to dominate under pressure and lead his team to success solidifies his status as one of the NFL’s most dynamic quarterbacks. For Newton, the choice is clear—Lamar Jackson stands above the rest.