National Football League

Jets CB Sauce Gardner: 'Might have to go get MVP' in 2023

Published Apr. 19, 2023 2:10 p.m. ET

Step aside, quarterbacks.

Although QBs have won the past nine NFL MVP awards, New York Jets defensive back Sauce Gardner is looking to make history next season in becoming the first cornerback ever to be named NFL MVP.

That is what Gardner told the Kelce brothers on "The New Heights podcast," saying he thought he "might have to go get MVP."

Jason countered: "There has never been a cornerback to win MVP."

If Sauce's prediction were to come to fruition, he would indeed be the first cornerback in league history to win MVP. Only two defensive players have won the award, including defensive tackle Alan Page in 1971 and linebacker Lawrence Taylor in 1986. Overall, 38 quarterbacks have won MVP, followed by 16 running backs in the award's 66-year history.

"Why are there so many quarterbacks," Gardner said. "When you think MVP, it is like quarterbacks be on the first ballot."

Gardner mentioned quarterbacks and offensive coordinators as candidates to be enemy No. 1 for jeopardizing his MVP goal.

Gardner called out Travis' coach, Andy Reid, as one of those who aids in his quarterbacks winning MVP. Reid's QB, Patrick Mahomes, won the MVP this past season for the second time on his career.

"Andy Reid is the only answer," Kelce said. "The best to ever do it."

Gardner agreed: "He [Reid] is No. 1 on the list."

Gardner will be looking to reach new heights in his sophomore campaign after he was named Defensive Rookie of the Year after a stellar rookie season in 2022. The No. 4 overall pick in the draft started 17 games for the Jets, totaling 75 tackles and 2 interceptions.

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