As we approach Week 16 of the 2023 NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers boast two players who are in the running for the prestigious MVP title: quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey. It’s worth noting that a non-quarterback hasn’t clinched the NFL MVP since 2012. Currently, the odds favor Purdy as the frontrunner at -230, as per Caesars Sportsbook, while McCaffrey stands with the third-shortest odds at +550, trailing Baltimore Ravens’ quarterback Lamar Jackson (+525).
In a recent episode of his “Let’s Go!” podcast, the legendary Tom Brady chatted with star running back Christian McCaffrey. During their conversation, Brady voiced his opinion that McCaffrey is undoubtedly the MVP favorite this season.
Brady recalled the first time he witnessed McCaffrey’s extraordinary talent back in the Rose Bowl, where McCaffrey caught an angled pass against Iowa and sprinted for an impressive 75-yard touchdown. Brady was left in awe, proclaiming, “Well, they’re not gonna catch him!” He emphasized McCaffrey’s dynamic prowess, then and now, highlighting the player’s consistent excellence throughout the year. Brady acknowledged that McCaffrey’s achievements this season are a reflection of his ongoing impact on the field and the impressive dynamism of the 49ers’ offense.
While every player’s ultimate goal is to win a Super Bowl ring, Brady raised the question of whether winning an MVP award would hold a special significance for McCaffrey, especially considering the challenges faced by running backs in recent times.
McCaffrey expressed his appreciation for being in the MVP conversation, noting the honor it represents. He recognized the unique timing of his nomination, considering the challenges that the running back position has encountered in the NFL, including contractual negotiations and market fluctuations. McCaffrey highlighted the camaraderie among running backs and their collective success, emphasizing how their achievements motivate him and elevate the position as a whole.
Brady disclosed that he possesses an NFL MVP vote this year and hinted at his inclination towards McCaffrey. However, McCaffrey humbly suggested that Brady should cast his vote for quarterback Brock Purdy, recognizing Purdy’s remarkable contributions to the team. McCaffrey debunked any negative narratives about Purdy being a “system quarterback” and praised his exceptional performance within the 49ers’ system.
Christian McCaffrey currently leads the league in scrimmage yards for the season with an impressive 1,801 and shares the NFL lead in touchdowns with 20. Moreover, he has consistently topped the NFL in rushing yards after each week of the 2023 season, placing him in contention to achieve a feat that hasn’t been accomplished in 28 years and has only been achieved by three legends of the game: O.J. Simpson, Walter Payton, and Emmitt Smith, all of whom secured the MVP title.