NFL Quarter-Season Awards: Top MVP and DPOY Candidates Through Week 4
After four weeks of the 2025 NFL season, several players have emerged as frontrunners for the league's most prestigious awards. Josh Allen continues his MVP-caliber performance for the Buffalo Bills, while Myles Garrett remains the defensive player to beat. Rookies like Tyler Warren and Carson Schwesinger are making immediate impacts, and unexpected contenders like Daniel Jones and Nik Bonitto are challenging established stars. This analysis examines the top candidates across seven major award categories based on their performances through the first quarter of the season.
As the 2025 NFL season reaches the quarter mark, the award races are beginning to take shape with several players establishing themselves as early frontrunners. Based on analysis of performance through four weeks, certain patterns have emerged that could foreshadow the eventual winners when the season concludes. From established superstars maintaining their dominance to surprising newcomers making immediate impacts, the landscape of NFL excellence is becoming clearer.
Most Valuable Player
The MVP race features familiar faces alongside unexpected contenders. Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills maintains his position as the frontrunner, demonstrating remarkable consistency and efficiency. Allen leads all quarterbacks in rushing EPA while ranking third in yards per dropback. His ability to avoid negative plays has been particularly impressive, with just one turnover through four games despite maintaining aggressive downfield passing.
Daniel Jones has emerged as a surprising contender with the Indianapolis Colts, ranking third in completion percentage over expectation while averaging 8.9 yards per attempt. Lamar Jackson rounds out the top three, leading the NFL in passing touchdowns and yards per attempt despite facing one of the league's toughest schedules. Jackson's production has been offset somewhat by a career-high sack rate that has impacted his overall efficiency metrics.
Defensive Player of the Year
The defensive award features dominant performances from both established stars and emerging talents. Myles Garrett continues to demonstrate why he's considered one of the league's most unblockable forces, leading all edge rushers in pass rush win rate at 37.5%. His combination of power and speed makes him a nightmare for offensive coordinators to scheme against each week.
Nik Bonitto of the Denver Broncos has emerged as the statistical leader through four weeks, posting league-best numbers in pressures and quick pressure rate. His 4.5 sacks come on significantly fewer pass-rush opportunities than other top contenders. Jeffery Simmons represents the interior defensive line with impressive metrics, leading all defensive tackles in pass rush win rate while facing above-average double-team rates.
Offensive Player of the Year
This category excludes quarterbacks to highlight the exceptional performances from other offensive positions. Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams leads the way with league-best numbers in targets, receptions, and receiving yards. His 84% catch rate and significant role in both the passing and running games make him indispensable to the Rams' offensive success.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba follows closely, leading the NFL in yards per route run while demonstrating elite efficiency. His ability to create separation and make plays downfield has transformed the Seattle Seahawks' passing attack. Jonathan Taylor completes the top three, returning to his 2021 form with explosive running that has been crucial to the Colts' offensive success.
Rookie of the Year Candidates
The rookie classes on both sides of the ball are making immediate impacts. On offense, Tyler Warren stands out for his versatility and efficiency with the Colts. His 2.5 yards per route run ranks among the league's best, and his usage as both a traditional tight end and occasional fullback adds unique dimensions to Indianapolis's offense.
Emeka Egbuka leads all rookies in receiving yards and touchdowns for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while Grey Zabel has been exceptional in pass protection for the Seattle Seahawks, allowing just one pressure through four games. Defensively, Carson Schwesinger has been a revelation at linebacker for the Cleveland Browns, playing nearly every snap while demonstrating excellent tackling efficiency and playmaking ability.
Coach of the Year
Dan Campbell leads the Detroit Lions to the top spot after guiding his team to impressive performances following an opening week blowout loss. The Lions rank among the league leaders in both offensive and defensive EPA per play over the past three weeks. Shane Steichen has done remarkable work with the Indianapolis Colts, designing creative offensive schemes that maximize Daniel Jones's abilities while incorporating unique personnel packages.
Sean McVay rounds out the top three, continuing to evolve the Los Angeles Rams offense while maintaining competitive performances despite key personnel changes. His ability to maximize Puka Nacua's talents through varied usage demonstrates why he remains one of the league's most innovative offensive minds.
The first quarter of the 2025 season has provided compelling evidence for these award candidates, though much can change as the season progresses. The consistency of established stars like Josh Allen and Myles Garrett provides a foundation for their campaigns, while emerging talents and surprising performances from players like Daniel Jones and Nik Bonitto add intrigue to the races. As teams settle into their identities and players accumulate more data, these early frontrunners will either solidify their positions or face challenges from competitors hitting their stride later in the season.
