Despite that, the belief in Burrow is still high across the NFL. In a recent poll conducted by Jeff Howe of The Athletic , Burrow was voted as the player expected to win MVP in 2025.

Looking for bold predictions and hot takes as the NFL season starts? Get five of our national reporters' picks right here.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) shake hands at the conclusion of a Week 9 NFL football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. Credit: Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Raiders are getting action as long shots, and Joe Burrow is getting MVP love. Here are the trends sportsbooks are seeing.

After a career year, league executives believe Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow could be even better in 2025.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow put up an incredible season last year, compiling 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns while throwing nine interceptions. He also was third in the NFL with a total QBR of 74.7, the highest of his career. However ...

It's no surprise that QBs dominate the favorites. But who offers the most value, and is there a sleeper pick among them? Here are our best bets.

Burrow and the Bengals have long needed the on-field games to start in order to convince outsiders, though. Even with Trey Hendrickson back in the fold, the defense has too many question marks under new coordinator Al Golden and the offensive line in front of Burrow remains a concern to reliably pick them as contenders.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was the narrow MVP favorite from NFL coaches and executives canvassed by The Athletic's Jeff Howe.

The pinpoint accuracy we're accustomed to seeing from Burrow was on full display in Cleveland, but the playmaking wasn't always there. He prioritized getting the ball out of his hands quickly against a pass rush that has historically given him fits,