Who Won NFL MVP in 2022
Lamar Jackson, quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens, won the NFL Most Valuable Player award for the 2022 season. This marked his second MVP recognition, following his first in 2019. The 2022 campaign was defined by Jackson’s elite rushing production from the quarterback position and efficient passing that led the Ravens to a 10–7 record and the AFC North title. Below is a verified breakdown of his season performance, the supporting cast, and how he compared on the 2022 AP MVP ballot.
2022 Season Performance Overview
Jackson’s 2022 season combined volume-leading rushing from the quarterback spot with a high-level passing game. He frequently carried the offense on both early downs and in critical short-yardage situations, expanding the traditional quarterback role. His efficiency and playmaking ability were central to Baltimore’s competitive edge in a tough AFC.
Key Stats Snapshot
| Stat Category | Lamar Jackson | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 3,508 | Completed 220-of-367 passes |
| Passing TDs | 17 | 10 interceptions on 3.9% interception rate |
| Rushing Yards | 993 | League-leading for quarterbacks |
| Rushing TDs | 7 | 11 total touchdowns on the ground |
| Quarterback Rating | 107.3 | Top-10 among qualified passers |
2022 AP MVP Ballot Placement
In the Associated Press 2022 MVP voting, Lamar Jackson led the ballot and was selected as the recipient. His combination of passing efficiency and historic rushing volume as a quarterback positioned him ahead of other finalists. Voters recognized his impact on both the Ravens’ regular-season success and his influence on game outcomes.
Top 3 Finalists (Verified)
- Lamar Jackson (BAL) – Winner
- Patrick Mahomes (KC)
- Joe Burrow (CIN)
Supporting Cast and Team Context
While Jackson was the decisive MVP vote-getter, his performance occurred within a team framework. The Ravens’ offensive line, receiving corps, and defensive contributions created opportunities and stability. Jackson’s ability to extend plays with his legs consistently shifted field position and opened downfield passing opportunities, making the entire offense more versatile.
Comparison to Recent MVP Calibrations
Historically, the NFL MVP tends to go to players on high-powered offenses with elite team records. Jackson’s 2022 award stood out because his rushing volume was exceptional even among quarterbacks. Below is a brief comparison to prior-season MVP profiles to highlight how Jackson’s 2022 season diverged in play-style while aligning in overall impact.
| Season | MVP Winner | Team Record | Primary Offensive Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Lamar Jackson | 10–7 | Rushing QB + balanced passing |
| 2021 | Aaron Rodgers | 13–1 | High-powered passing |
| 2020 | Patrick Mahomes | 14–2 | Dynamic passing |
Legacy Implications and Historical Placement
Winning his second MVP in 2022 solidified Lamar Jackson’s place among the quarterback group that has redefined versatility in the modern NFL. His capacity to rush at an unprecedented level for a pocket passer drew further attention to the dual-threat quarterback archetype. The 2022 season is often referenced when discussing league-wide skill evolution and positional flexibility.
Commonly Asked Questions
- Did Lamar Jackson make the Pro Bowl in 2022? Yes, he was selected as a Pro Bowl alternate at quarterback and appeared when injuries elevated active rosters.
- How did the Ravens perform after the MVP season? The Ravens remained competitive in the following campaign, securing a playoff berth and continuing as a defensively oriented team built around Jackson’s playmaking.
- Was there any controversy in the 2022 AP MVP voting? Discussion typically centered around whether voters appropriately valued rushing production relative to traditional passing metrics, but the outcome reflected the widely recognized impact of Jackson’s season.
Overall, Lamar Jackson’s 2022 MVP award reflects a season in which his unparalleled rushing quarterback performance influenced outcomes across the league and reinforced new benchmarks for positional play.