Matthew Stafford vs. Drake Maye: Tom Brady weighs in on the 2025-26 MVP race

The 2025-26 NFL MVP race has turned into one of the most talked-about debates of the season. With the regular season complete, two quarterbacks stand clearly above the rest, Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams and Drake Maye of the New England Patriots.

Now, the conversation has gained even more attention after legendary former quarterback Tom Brady shared his view on who deserves the league’s biggest individual honour.

Tom Brady shares his MVP pick

Speaking on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Brady made it clear that this is not a case of one player being good and the other falling short. According to him, both quarterbacks delivered outstanding seasons and deserve praise.



Brady openly admired Drake Maye’s rapid rise in just his second NFL season. He highlighted Maye’s growth under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and praised his ability to take full advantage of his opportunities. Leading the Patriots to a 14-3 record and the No. 2 seed in the AFC, Maye showed poise, accuracy and leadership well beyond his years.

However, when asked to pick one name, Brady leaned toward experience.

“I just see Matt Stafford as a Hall-of-Fame-level quarterback who has played his best season of football,” Brady said. He added that Stafford’s consistency, leadership and ability to perform in all conditions separated him in a very tight race.

Matthew Stafford vs. Drake Maye: Breaking down the numbers

Statistically, both players put together MVP-worthy seasons. Stafford led the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdown passes, guiding the Rams to a strong 12-5 record and a playoff spot in the NFC.



On the other hand, Maye threw for 4,394 yards and 31 touchdowns, while leading the league in completion percentage (72%) and QBR. His calm decision-making and efficiency helped New England become one of the most balanced teams in football.



Notably, Stafford and Maye were among the few quarterbacks this season to cross 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns while throwing fewer than 10 interceptions, showing just how close the race truly is.

While team success slightly favours Maye, betting markets currently lean toward Stafford. Sportsbooks have listed the Rams quarterback as the favourite heading into the NFL Honors ceremony, scheduled for February 5, 2026.

Brady summed it up best by saying there is “no bad choice.” One represents elite experience and a career-defining season, while the other symbolises the league’s next superstar arriving faster than expected.

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