Baltimore Ravens fans are optimistic about the 2026 season and believe that Lamar Jackson can put together another MVP campaign. Of course, it would sting seeing another quarterback in the division win this award, but when you play in the same division as Joe Burrow, that possibility can't be ruled out.
Unfortunately, for Ravens fans, that's exactly what Conor Orr of Sports Illustrated predicted when making 100 bold predictions for the upcoming season.
This is technically a bold prediction, but Orr listed it as his second bold prediction and noted that he has picked Burrow to win MVP every year since 2022, indicating he feels fairly confident about this prediction.
Unfortunately for the Baltimore Ravens, there's a chance for Joe Burrow to win MVP
While no Ravens fan would like to see this outcome, you have to admit that it's a genuine possibility that Burrow can win MVP.
As Orr noted, the Cincinnati Bengals have the fourth-easiest schedule. Plus, with Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown, Burrow has two star wide receivers and a promising young running back.
When he's healthy, Burrow's production is undeniable. In his most recent fully healthy season, he threw for 4,918 yards and 43 touchdowns in 2024. Still, the Bengals' 9-8 record held him back in MVP conversations.
If Burrow can get more consistent protection from an offensive line that the Bengals opted to bring back, and Cincinnati's defense can improve (which is a real question after losing Trey Hendrickson to Baltimore) -- it's possible they'll post a better record.
This, paired with Burrow's typically elite play continuing, could pave the way for an MVP season. A lot of things would have to go right, but if they do, Burrow has a real path to winning the MVP award this season.
A Burrow MVP campaign would make things more challenging for the Baltimore Ravens
Beyond the obvious embarrassment of Lamar losing out on a third MVP to a division rival, Burrow winning the MVP would surely be paired with a strong overall season from Cincinnati.
Ravens fans have their hopes set on a third divisional title in four years, and the possibility of a Burrow MVP season would throw a wrench into things. Yes, Orr also predicted the Ravens to win the division, but at the very least, it would ensure that they have a formidable playoff threat in their division, and that's the last thing they need, as they try to compete for a Super Bowl.
There's a lot of speculation that goes into this prediction, and perhaps the Bengals will end up falling short of expectations as they seemingly do every year.
Nevertheless, there is a distinct chance that Burrow wins the MVP award, and that's a reality all Ravens fans are hoping to avoid.
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