Lamar Jackson made a significant statement in the NFL MVP race by leading the Baltimore Ravens to a thrilling comeback in Week 5.

He showcased his skills with an impressive stiff arm on a defender, buying time to find tight end Isaiah Likely, securing his fourth touchdown pass while facing the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Ravens clinched a 41-38 victory in overtime, thanks to a key 51-yard run by Derrick Henry and a decisive field goal by Justin Tucker.

But has this performance elevated Jackson’s position in our MVP rankings?

After Week 5, we have a new leader in our NFL MVP rankings, which might not come as a shock to those who have been monitoring this standout quarterback’s impressive start.

5. Josh Allen, QB of Buffalo Bills: Stock Down

Josh Allen’s MVP hopes took a downturn following back-to-back losses to tough opponents.

In a recent game against the Houston Texans, he completed only 9 of 30 passes for 131 yards with just one touchdown and suffered a hit to the side of his head in the fourth quarter, contributing to the Bills’ 23-20 defeat.

Over his last two games, he’s gone 25 of 59 for 311 yards and one touchdown, a disappointing performance after previously holding the top spot in our MVP rankings after Week 3.

However, with plenty of games left in the season, he still has a chance to reclaim his top form.

4. Patrick Mahomes, QB of Kansas City Chiefs: Stock Steady

Evaluating Patrick Mahomes’ MVP candidacy can be perplexing. His statistics appear more middle-of-the-pack rather than elite. The Chiefs have been winning with a strong running game and a solid defense this season, yet their 5-0 record is hard to argue against.

In a recent Monday Night Football game, Mahomes threw for 331 yards, leading two touchdown drives and four field goal drives in a 26-13 win against the New Orleans Saints.

He connected with Juju Smith-Schuster for seven receptions and 130 yards, while Kareem Hunt contributed 102 rushing yards. Coach Andy Reid’s strategic game plan displayed that the team remains competitive despite injuries to key players.

Yet, Mahomes needs to elevate his performance if he aims to secure a third consecutive MVP award and rise in our rankings.

3. Lamar Jackson, QB of Baltimore Ravens: Stock Up

Jackson’s stock has risen in the MVP conversation thanks to his exceptional four-touchdown effort against the Bengals. He played a vital role in Baltimore’s thrilling victory, even in the face of Joe Burrow’s five touchdown passes.

However, it’s worth noting a critical fumble in overtime that nearly cost the Ravens the game, but Bengals kicker Evan McPherson missed a potentially game-winning field goal, allowing Jackson and Baltimore to recover.

Currently, Jackson ranks third with nine touchdown passes, fourth in passer rating, and fifth in QBR among quarterbacks for the 3-2 Ravens. His recent performances suggest he is a serious contender for a third MVP award this season.

2. Sam Darnold, QB of Minnesota Vikings: Stock Down

Sam Darnold did not throw a touchdown for the first time this season during Minnesota’s 23-17 win over the New York Jets, affecting his MVP candidacy.

Nonetheless, he made crucial plays that contributed to the Vikings scoring a touchdown through running back C.J. Ham and four field goals in their victory.

Thanks to his 11 touchdowns this season, which ranks second in the NFL, Darnold remains in the top two of our MVP rankings despite this dip.

1. Jayden Daniels, QB of Washington Commanders: Stock Up

Rookie Jayden Daniels has climbed to the top of our MVP rankings after an impressive Week 5.

He guided the Commanders to six touchdown drives, with three resulting from his running backs in a decisive 34-13 victory over the Cleveland Browns last week. Although his completion percentage dipped below 80% for the season at 14 of 25 and he threw his second interception, Daniels still made a significant impact with one touchdown pass.

With an impressive average of 31.0 points per game and 17 total touchdowns early in the season, Daniels has solidified his position as a leading contender.

Although it’s early in the season, it’s important to mention that Daniels may have a strong chance of becoming only the second rookie ever to earn the NFL MVP title, following Jim Brown’s achievement in 1957.