Christian McCaffrey Makes History as AP NFL MVP Finalist Alongside Four QBs

Christian McCaffrey has made NFL history as the only non-quarterback to be named a finalist for the 2025 Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, standing alongside four of the league’s premier quarterbacks: Josh Allen, Trevor Lawrence, Drake Maye, and Matthew Stafford. The announcement underscores both McCaffrey’s exceptional 2025 campaign and ongoing quarterback dominance in MVP voting.

The 2025 AP NFL MVP Finalists: A Unique Mix

• Christian McCaffrey, the versatile San Francisco 49ers running back
• Josh Allen, the dynamic Buffalo Bills quarterback
• Trevor Lawrence, the rising star from the Jacksonville Jaguars
• Drake Maye, the standout rookie leading the Carolina Panthers
• Matthew Stafford, the veteran field general of the Los Angeles Rams

As reported by ESPN NFL and WRAL, the inclusion of McCaffrey among four quarterbacks highlights his historic impact this season. Notably, he is the first player ever named a finalist for three AP NFL awards in a single year, a testament to his versatility and overall value.

McCaffrey’s Historic Achievement

Running backs have long struggled to gain MVP recognition in the quarterback-centric modern NFL. McCaffrey’s presence among the top five is significant as he’s not only vying for the league’s most prestigious individual honor, but also has been a finalist for three separate AP awards—a feat unmatched in league history.

This accomplishment reflects McCaffrey’s dual-threat ability as both a rusher and receiver, and his pivotal role in the 49ers’ offensive success during the 2025 season. His nomination demonstrates the league’s willingness to recognize multi-dimensional excellence, even in a landscape dominated by quarterbacks.

Quarterbacks Continue to Dominate MVP Balloting

The remaining finalists—Allen, Lawrence, Maye, and Stafford—all represent different stages of NFL quarterback careers, from rookie sensation to established veteran. Each has posted standout seasons worthy of MVP consideration:

• Josh Allen has led the Bills with his trademark combination of passing and rushing prowess.
• Trevor Lawrence guided the Jaguars through a resurgent campaign, cementing his place among the NFL’s elite young passers.
• Drake Maye delivered a breakout rookie performance for the Panthers, earning a spot among the league’s best.
• Matthew Stafford continued to demonstrate veteran leadership and strong production for the Rams.

The quarterback-heavy finalist list reflects recent MVP trends, where signal-callers have overwhelmingly taken home the award. McCaffrey’s inclusion, however, is a reminder of the impact that non-quarterbacks can have when they deliver transcendent seasons.

Looking Ahead: Who Will Claim the 2025 NFL MVP?

The MVP will be revealed at the annual NFL Honors ceremony, capping a season in which each finalist delivered remarkable individual campaigns. McCaffrey’s historic triple-finalist status sets him apart, while the four quarterbacks each make compelling cases for the league’s top honor.

Regardless of the outcome, this year’s AP NFL MVP vote is set to ignite debate over positional value and the evolving criteria for the league’s most coveted individual prize. McCaffrey’s breakthrough may signal a broader shift in MVP consideration, opening the door for more non-quarterbacks to be recognized in the future.

For more on the finalists’ performances and the upcoming NFL Honors ceremony, visit the official NFL Honors page.