The San Francisco 49ers have invested plenty in both sides of the ball, but how far they go this season will hinge on Jimmy Garoppolo. Sure, DeForest Buckner and others could have a big impact on defense, and Jerick McKinnon could be a big addition on offense, but if this team surprises folks and ends up in the playoffs, odds are pretty good Jimmy G will have built on his first five starts with the team.
With that in mind, the folks at Betonline.ag have put together their list of odds for 2018 MVP. Jimmy Garoppolo slots in at +2000, which means you win $2,000 if you bet $100. He is tied with Derek Carr and Deshaun Watson for 13th best odds. Aaron Rodgers tops the MVP list at +600, followed by Tom Brady (+750), and then Carson Wentz and Drew Brees (+1100). Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson is the first non-quarterback on the list, at 21st with +4000 odds
It seems fitting Garoppolo, Carr, and Watson are all together in the odds. Jimmy G had a breakout five starts and turned it into a nine-figure contract extension. Last offseasonb, Carr signed his own nine-figure contract extension, but took a step back last season. Watson had a breakout rookie campaign before tearing his ACL and looks like a potential star. They all have questions, but all have considerable upside.