Week 3 NFL Predictions: Which Players Will Emerge as Top 5 MVP Candidates?

Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees are making a strong case for the early-season MVP.  However, several other players have had early success.  Today's games will impact the way we see the very early MVP race.

New England has a surprising tough game against the 2-0 Buffalo Bills.  Buffalo has shocked a lot of people with their ability to score points.  However, they have not shown great defense, meaning Tom Brady should have another strong performance. 

At this point, Brady is the front runner for the MVP race.  He has looked unstoppable, collecting tons of yardage and leading the Pats to a 2-0 record.

Aaron Rodgers has a tough test today, as he travels to Chicago to take on the division rival, Chicago Bears.  The Bears always play the Packers tough, while finding a way to pressure Rodgers.  He has not been overly successful against the Bears. 

However, Rodgers is already in midseason form and could have a very good game.  The Chicago secondary is banged up, with the possibility of both Major Wright and Chris Harris missing the game.

The revamped Houston Texans defense faces their first true test.  They will be asked to slow down Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints. 

Brees has looked exceptional thus far, while leading the Saints to a 1-1 record.  He has been doing a good job overcoming injuries to several key offensive weapons.  The fact he is getting the job done with average receivers is impressive.

Darren McFadden might not be getting a ton of press, but he his having a great start to the season.  Today he faces a tough New York Jets defense, but a good game should put him in the MVP discussion. 

McFadden is a complete player and the focal point of the Raiders offense.  He has shown the ability to produce even though defenses are keying on his every move.

There are two sleeper candidates that I feel might make a run at the trophy.  Rookies rarely remain in the discussion, thanks to the rookie wall.  However, both Cam Newton and A.J. Green have looked very impressive.  It will be difficult for these guys to stay in the race, but another strong performance will put them in the discussion.