Mahomes wins MVP award

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KMIZ)

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes added hardware to his trophy case even before he plays in the Super Bowl this Sunday.

Mahomes was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player for the 2022 season on Thursday night at the NFL Honors ceremony. This is the second time the Kansas City quarterback took home the award, with the last time being 2018, his first year as a starter.

Mahomes led the league in passing yardage and touchdowns, with 5,250 yards and 41 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. He also went 67.1% (435-of-648) passing and ended the regular season with a 105.2 passer rating.

Mahomes' teammates said early Thursday that it would mean a lot to see him win his second MVP in a five-year span as the Kansas City starter.

"I think we've just seen him grow as a quarterback," tight end Travis Kelce said. "His talent level goes far beyond more than his ability to instinctually just go out there. He's playing a step ahead. He's almost playing chess out there, in terms of he's got three or four moves ready in his pocket, depending on what the defense does."

You can watch the full interview with Kelce, along with head coach Andy Reid in the video players below.

"He definitely has my vote," defensive end Chris Jones said. "That would be dope. Two MVPs, but what would be better is two Super Bowls."

Kelce added that Mahomes has a personality that the team rallies around. He said it's contagious and his love for football is obvious.

"He shows his personality," running back Isiah Pacheco said. "He's himself, man. He's not acting, he's not thinking. That's what it's all about, being yourself so we can build those relationships in this football team and have each other's backs and build on these moments.

Mahomes made it clear on Thursday morning, though: the MVP would not happen without a whole team.

Other award recipients included:

• Coach of the Year: Brian Daboll, New York Giants
• Comeback Player of the Year: Geno Smith, Seattle Seahawks
• Offensive Player of the Year: Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings
• Defensive Player of the Year: Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers
• Offensive Rookie of the Year: Garrett Wilson, New York Jets
• Defensive Rookie of the Year: Sauce Gardner, New York Jets
• Walter Payton Man of the Year: Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys