CBS Sports analysts pick 2026 NFL award favorites ahead of season kickoff

CBS Sports released its panel of expert award predictions one day before the 2026 NFL season begins. Voters identified Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow as the leading candidate for league MVP, followed by Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase emerged as the top pick for Offensive Player of the Year, while Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. received the most support for Defensive Player of the Year. Among rookies, Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love is the frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year despite a recent preseason ankle injury. The Defensive Rookie of the Year race remains closely contested between New York Jets edge defender David Bailey and Tampa Bay Buccaneers edge defender Rueben Bain Jr. The panel includes 15 contributors who based their selections on projected individual performance and team success.

• 5:23 PMCBS NFL — CBS Sports 2026 NFL award predictions: Experts have clear No. 1 choice for MVP, pick other top honors