NFL Power Rankings: Ranking the Top MVP Candidates

After Week 4 of the NFL season, we have several players in the running for the MVP.  Everyone has different criteria for how they determine their award winners—my system is pretty basic. 

It is important for the MVP candidate to have good on-the-field production.  This means that his stats should be on par with the league leaders.  However, I also consider the game-by-game production, ensuring it wasn't a single great performance.

The MVP should be on a successful team, ensuring his production helps his team win.  There are plenty of players that rack up empty stats at the end of a game.  The MVP should make plays in critical situations.

Finally, an MVP candidate needs to have shown the ability to take over a game.  He needs to show those unstoppable moments.  The world should feel like the MVP is the best player on the planet.

1. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers

Rodgers is playing like the NFL MVP.  He has led his team to an undefeated record, has eye-popping stats and appears unstoppable.  Rodgers fill all of my MVP requirements.

2. Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots

Brady is only a few notches behind Aaron Rodgers.  The poor performance and loss to the Buffalo Bills is what has Brady at No. 2.

3. Calvin Johnson, WR, Detroit Lions

The Lions are undefeated, thanks to the spectacular play of Calvin Johnson.  He leads the league in touchdown receptions.  Every week, Johnson makes an unbelievable catch, unable to be stopped by even three defenders.

4. Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders look capable of competing for a playoff spot.  Their success is directly tied to Darren McFadden's ability to make plays.  He is averaging 117 yards per game on the ground, while also making plays in the passing game. 

5. Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears

Forte is among the league leaders in both rushing and receiving yards.  He is the Chicago Bears' entire offense; without him they would be winless.  After this weekend's 200-yard performance, Forte put himself in the MVP discussion.

6. Terrelle Suggs, DE/OLB, Baltimore Ravens

For a defender to be considered for the MVP trophy, he needs to create turnovers and dominate games.  Already, Suggs has two forced fumbles, one interception and four sacks.  His ability to pressure the quarterback has also led to other turnovers.  Teams need to adjust their game play to account for Suggs—that is the definition of MVP.

7. Wes Welker, WR, New England Patroits

Welker leads the league in both receptions (60) and receiving yards (616).  His performance is even more impressive because of the attention he is receiving.  Welker is the team's biggest threat and obvious main target.  However, he is still producing big-time numbers.