49ers quarterback Brock Purdy became the odds-on favorite to be named NFL MVP on Sunday.
Between another great offensive performance from San Francisco and a dismal showing from Dak Prescott and the Cowboys during Week 14, Purdy was the favorite to win the league’s top award before Sunday Night Football kicked off.
But while oddsmakers believe that Purdy is about to be named the best player in the NFL, the quarterback isn’t fully convinced that he’s even the most valuable player on his team.
Speaking with reporters after the 49ers’ 45–29 win over the Cardinals, Purdy made the case for running back Christian McCaffrey to be named MVP.
“I think Christian should be MVP. I really do believe that,” Purdy said. “He does everything for us. Runs the ball well, can catch the ball, he does everything. In my eyes, that’s an MVP. I’m the guy that hands him the ball off and turn back and watch what he does, bouncing off guys, making cuts.”
BROCK PURDY:
"I think Christian should be MVP. I really do believe that." pic.twitter.com/8kR2sd2oen
— KNBR (@KNBR) December 18, 2023
McCaffrey is currently having a career year. His 1,292 rushing yards on the season are 250 more than any other player in the league, and his 509 receiving yards are the most of any running back in the NFL. He has 20 total touchdowns and could break Jerry Rice’s franchise record of 23 touchdowns in a season with a strong finish to the year.
Still, Purdy is no slouch either. His 70.2% completion rate is the best among regular starters, and only Prescott and Jared Goff have thrown for more touchdowns.
As things stand, both Purdy and McCaffrey have a very real chance at winning MVP, but Purdy seems to know where his vote would go if he had one.
Meanwhile, McCaffrey spoke with reporters after Sunday’s game alongside left tackle Trent Williams. After Williams was asked about his pick for MVP, McCaffrey was asked if he would make a case for Williams to win MVP.
“He’s got my vote,” said McCaffrey, per ESPN’s Nick Wagoner.
Whether Purdy, McCaffrey, Williams, or another player from across the league winds up being named MVP, it’s clear that this 49ers team is loaded with talent.