Why Jalen Hurts Is a Dark Horse MVP Candidate, According to NFL Expert
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is entering the 2025 NFL season with serious momentum and motivation. Despite leading the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory and earning Super Bowl MVP honors, some analysts still hesitate to put him in the top tier of NFL quarterbacks. But one NFL expert believes Hurts is a true dark horse MVP candidate, and the numbers back it up.
Consistent Growth Since 2021
Since becoming the Eagles’ starting quarterback in 2021, Jalen Hurts has improved in nearly every area of his game. Over four seasons, he’s totaled close to 15,000 passing yards and more than 140 total touchdowns. His dual-threat ability — combining smart passing with explosive rushing — makes him one of the most versatile quarterbacks in the league.
His performance in high-pressure games, especially in the 2024 postseason, shows his ability to deliver when it matters most — a critical trait for any NFL MVP candidate.
An Elite Supporting Cast
One major factor working in Hurts’ favor in 2025 is his offensive arsenal. The Eagles boast a powerful group of playmakers including:
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A.J. Brown
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DeVonta Smith
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Dallas Goedert
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Saquon Barkley
With Barkley’s presence in the backfield and elite receivers out wide, Hurts has the tools to lead one of the most balanced and dangerous offenses in the NFL. This gives him the ability to shift between the air attack and ground game, keeping defenses guessing.
Challenges on the MVP Path
Despite all his strengths, Hurts faces real challenges. The Eagles’ offensive coordinator carousel continues, with Kevin Patullo stepping in as the fifth coordinator in six seasons. This instability could impact offensive consistency.
Another concern is statistical output. The Eagles’ balanced offensive approach may limit Hurts’ ability to post gaudy numbers compared to more pass-heavy quarterbacks — a key consideration for MVP voters.
Why Hurts Still Has a Shot
In her analysis on NFL.com, Judy Battista highlights that although Hurts may not always lead in passing stats, his impact on winning and his leadership on the field cannot be overstated.
Hurts finished second in MVP voting in 2022, and if he guides the Eagles to another deep playoff run in 2025 while maintaining elite efficiency, the MVP conversation will once again include his name.
The MVP Profile
Jalen Hurts represents the modern quarterback:
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Athletic
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Composed under pressure
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Able to adapt
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Team-first mentality
His journey from second-round pick to Super Bowl champion showcases his work ethic and potential. If Hurts stays healthy and continues refining his game, he could rise to the top of the 2025 NFL MVP race.
Final Thoughts
Jalen Hurts may not be the betting favorite, but he has every quality needed to win the NFL MVP award in 2025. His leadership, combined with a dynamic supporting cast and postseason experience, positions him as a top dark horse MVP contender. Don’t be surprised if Hurts silences the critics once again and claims the league’s highest individual honor.
