MVP RACE: Patrick Mahomes, Bo Nix & Justin Herbert BATTLE for MVP Honors in 2026 AFC West Shootout

The AFC West is one of the best divisions in all of the NFL and this year will be another battle, but this time, there is a new team on top after the Kansas City Chiefs fell from grace. However, if Patrick Mahomes is ahead of schedule and motivated for revenge, he could make a push to regain his crown as the league's best player. Bo Nix missed the AFC title game, but as he bounces back from injury the Denver Broncos have put a Super Bowl team around him and it could elevate him to MVP status. Justin Herbert has the best offensive play caller of his career and if that can maximize his talent, Herbert could also be an MVP candidate. Finally, Fernando Mendoza may not have a shot at MVP, but rookie of the year is possible. Seems like though the Las Vegas Raiders could be looking to hold Mendoza back a little bit in favor of starting a veteran out of the gate.