2025 NFL Predictions, Picks: 3 OPOY Wagers To Make Now

2025 NFL Predictions: Three OPOY Bets to Consider Now

Published on Jul. 18, 2025, at 11:48 a.m. ET

The Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) award in the NFL has generally revolved around two main types of players over the past few decades. First, we have running backs and receivers who put up exceptional numbers, often leading their teams to victory. bmw model Examples include Saquon Barkley last season and Christian McCaffrey in 2023, as well as Cooper Kupp in 2021 and Todd Gurley in 2017. It’s important to note that there hasn’t been a repeat winner for back-to-back Offensive Player of the Year in these positions since Marshall Faulk took home the trophy three consecutive times from 1999 to 2001.

The second category includes quarterbacks who have also won the MVP award, like Patrick Mahomes in 2018 and Cam Newton in 2015, or Drew Brees in 2011, who had a stellar season but finished as the runner-up to Aaron Rodgers in the MVP voting. In recent seasons, it seems that voters have leaned more towards selecting players from the receiver-running back category 555pub com login register. With this in mind, here are three players I believe are solid contenders for OPOY this coming season.

Derrick Henry

Derrick Henry last claimed this award in 2020, so there’s sufficient time for voters to feel comfortable awarding it to him again. Henry had an outstanding season, and if it weren’t for Barkley, we would be talking about his impressive 325 carries and 1,921 yards much more frequently. He also added 16 touchdowns to his tally.

The primary reason why few running backs achieve back-to-back wins for this award is durability, but Henry has proven to be an exception. He has played in every game for the last three seasons, amassing nearly 1,000 carries without significant issues. I don’t foresee a drop in his production this season as he plays in Baltimore. However, the only potential hurdle is his quarterback, Lamar Jackson, who might detract some votes due to his own individual successes.

PICK: Derrick Henry (+1600) to win OPOY

Joe Burrow

I believe it’s worth placing a bet on Joe Burrow, who was arguably the top quarterback in the NFL last season jilibet com register login. Despite not reaching the postseason due to a struggling defense, Burrow completed 70% of his 652 pass attempts, leading the league with 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns.

I don’t anticipate the Bengals’ offense slowing down this season, especially with their defense still in question. Burrow is surrounded by elite talent, and voters may consider him for this award if he approaches 5,000 passing yards again. Since the Bengals likely won’t be strong enough to position Burrow for an MVP title, awarding him this honor could be a desirable choice for voters. 777pub install Currently, this betting line is less favorable than for Jayden Daniels, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson. If Burrow begins the season strongly, this line will likely decrease rapidly gcash online games legit.

PICK: Joe Burrow (+5000) to win OPOY

Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes benefits from an upgraded offensive line and a healthy receiving corps (although there’s a pending suspension for Rashee Rice), alongside Travis Kelce’s return. Many pundits are declaring that the Chiefs’ run is over, which could fuel an ‘angry’ Mahomes looking to prove everyone wrong this season.

Kansas City’s offense ranked last in explosive play rate yet fifth in success rate, largely due to the lack of healthy receivers throughout the season. With Rice and Brown back in action, plus the addition of Jalen Royals in the draft and Xavier Worthy in his second year, this issue has been addressed. Mahomes is only two seasons removed from a 5,000-yard season, and I believe he’s on track for a stellar year. Even if he doesn’t secure MVP honors, this award is well within his grasp, and the odds make it a compelling wager.

PICK: Patrick Mahomes (+10000) to win OPOY

While I have not placed wagers on a few other potential candidates, they are worth mentioning. Ja’Marr Chase could siphon votes away from Burrow and might be worth a split bet between Burrow and Chase. However, I’m inclined to favor Burrow as he has the more compelling narrative. Justin Jefferson caught my attention, but I’m uncertain of his production with J.J. McCarthy at quarterback. I considered McCaffrey as well, but there are concerns regarding the 49ers’ offensive line and his health.

Geoff Schwartz is an NFL analyst for FOX Sports and played eight seasons in the NFL for five different teams. He started at right tackle for the University of Oregon for three seasons and was a second-team All-Pac-12 selection during his senior year. Follow him on Twitter @GeoffSchwartz.

What are your thoughts on these predictions for the upcoming NFL season?