When Josh Allen was selected by the Buffalo Bills with the seventh pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, he was far from a sure thing. Known for his powerful arm but criticized for his inaccuracy, Allen was a high-risk, high-reward prospect from the University of Wyoming.
Fast forward to today, and Allen has exceeded expectations, winning the 2024 NFL MVP award. He edged out Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in one of the closest races in recent history, becoming the third Bills player to claim the prestigious honor, joining Thurman Thomas (1991) and O.J. Simpson (1973).
“Feels good,” Allen said backstage after receiving his award. “I feel like my teammates wanted this for me more than I did, but I’m honored.”
A Historic MVP Race
The 2024 MVP race was one of the most competitive in recent memory. The final voting results underscored just how close the decision was:
- Josh Allen: 27 first-place votes, 383 points
- Lamar Jackson: 23 first-place votes, 362 points
Typically, by the time the MVP award is announced, there is little suspense. The last time an MVP race was this close was in 2005, when Shaun Alexander narrowly beat Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.
Adding to the intrigue, Jackson was named first-team All-Pro quarterback by the same 50 voters who decide the MVP. The last time an MVP and first-team All-Pro quarterback were different players was in 1987, when John Elway won MVP but Joe Montana took the All-Pro honor.
“I was pretty surprised,” Allen admitted. “Lamar was very deserving of this award as well.”
Allen vs. Jackson: Breaking Down the Numbers
Both quarterbacks had exceptional seasons, but what separated Allen from Jackson?
Lamar Jackson’s Stats (2024 Season)
- 4,172 passing yards
- 41 passing touchdowns
- 4 interceptions
- 119.6 passer rating
- 915 rushing yards
- 4 rushing touchdowns
Josh Allen’s Stats (2024 Season)
- 3,731 passing yards
- 28 passing touchdowns
- 6 interceptions
- 101.4 passer rating
- 531 rushing yards
- 12 rushing touchdowns
Jackson had superior passing efficiency, but Allen’s ability to create plays with his legs, particularly in high-pressure moments, helped sway voters.
Allen’s MVP Moment
Every MVP needs a defining performance, and for Allen, it came in a Week 14 loss against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite Buffalo falling 44-42, Allen became the first player in NFL regular-season history to record three passing touchdowns and three rushing touchdowns in a single game.
“That was a statement game,” Bills head coach Sean McDermott said. “Even though we lost, it showed why Josh is special. He single-handedly kept us in that game and made plays that very few quarterbacks in history could make.”
That performance solidified Allen’s case, proving his ability to carry an evolving Bills offense.
The Evolution of Josh Allen
Allen’s rise to MVP status has been a story of development and resilience. Initially seen as a raw prospect with accuracy issues, his first two seasons in Buffalo were filled with growing pains. However, the Bills remained committed to his development, and that patience paid off.
A turning point came in 2020 when Buffalo traded for Stefon Diggs, giving Allen an elite wide receiver. That year, Allen led the Bills to their first AFC Championship appearance in decades, proving he was capable of leading a high-powered offense.
Now, in 2024, he has refined his accuracy, decision-making, and ability to perform under pressure, culminating in his MVP win.
What’s Next for Allen?
Winning an MVP is an incredible achievement, but Allen knows the ultimate goal remains a Super Bowl victory. Despite Buffalo’s success, they have repeatedly fallen short against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, a team in the midst of building a dynasty.
“The job’s not done,” Allen said. “It’s an incredible honor to win MVP, but at the end of the day, we’re here to win championships. That’s what drives me.”
Buffalo’s front office will need to continue surrounding Allen with talent, especially after the departure of Stefon Diggs in the offseason. However, Allen has proven his ability to elevate his teammates and carry the team when needed.
Josh Allen’s journey from an overlooked college prospect to an NFL MVP is one of football’s most compelling stories. His unique combination of arm strength, athleticism, leadership, and clutch performances made him the perfect candidate for this year’s award.
Now, with an MVP trophy on his résumé, the next step is clear—bringing a Super Bowl to Buffalo. The Bills have their MVP. Now, they just need their championship.
John Snow is a passionate NFL enthusiast who lives and breathes football. Whether it’s the latest updates, breaking news, or key stats that fuel the game, John thrives on sharing it all with fellow fans.
