The Super Bowl MVP has been won by quarterbacks in 34 of the 59 NFL Championship games, with Von Miller the last defensive player, and Cooper Kupp the last wide receiver
The 2025 NFL season has been one of the most dramatic in recent history, with the Kansas City Chiefs struggling to stay in the mix, while the New England Patriots have led the way with 10 wins.
For so long, the Chiefs have been involved in the Super Bowl conversation, and quarterback Patrick Mahomes has never failed to reach the AFC Championship game as a starter. Even during a record season for tight end Travis Kelce, it would take an almighty effort for the Chiefs to reach Santa Clara in February.
With so many surprises this season, it could be an unexpected Super Bowl with several teams sensing an opportunity during a transitional year. While winning the Super Bowl is the career goal for all NFL players, earning Super Bowl MVP in the championship game is as good as it gets.
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The award is often given to the quarterback on the winning team, just like the regular-season MVP award; the signal-caller is usually responsible for the outcome. According to Statmuse, the Super Bowl MVP has been won by quarterbacks in 34 of the 59 season finales to date.
Of course, a tremendous effort from an offensive or defensive player can also be the difference, and the award has been handed out elsewhere. Seven running backs have earned Super Bowl MVP honors, and nine wide receivers.
No tight end, kicker, or punter has ever won the award, but nine defensive players have been recognized. Von Miller was the last defensive player to win Super Bowl MVP in 2015, but only two non-quarterbacks have won the award in the previous decade.