Pleasant surprises of the NFL season so far: Brock Purdy for MVP and actual Raiders competence

Early in the 2026 NFL season, several teams and players are delivering unexpected success. Notable surprises include Brock Purdy emerging as an MVP candidate and the Las Vegas Raiders showing unexpected competence. The article also reflects on recent NFL history, including last season's Super Bowl featuring the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, a 44-year-old quarterback returning to boost the Indianapolis Colts, and the Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars winning their divisions after poor 2024 campaigns.