As we near the end of the first quarter of the NFL season, it’s becoming clearer which teams are living up to expectations and which are faltering. With all franchises now having played four games, we can start pinpointing the standout performances that could shape the awards race as the season progresses.

With the league adjusting to a 17-game schedule, it’s crucial to assess early-season performances to identify potential MVP candidates and other award recipients. Throughout the previous seasons, the landscape of player performance can shift dramatically, as witnessed with the likes of Justin Herbert and Tua Tagovailoa, who were early favorites before experiencing ups and downs.

Now, let’s dive into the early contenders for seven important awards, starting with Coach of the Year and culminating in the coveted Most Valuable Player.

Coach of the Year

This award is often influenced heavily by a team’s win-loss record. With nine teams boasting a record of either 3-1 or 4-0, the competition is fierce. Here are the top three contenders:

3. Dan Quinn, Commanders

Quinn's Commanders are thriving primarily due to an explosive offense, yet the inconsistency on defense prevents him from taking the top slot. While he has proven effective previously as Dallas’ defensive coordinator, the past performance of the Commanders’ defensive unit is underwhelming.

2. Todd Bowles, Buccaneers

Bowles has navigated a challenging start with injuries to key players. His team has impressed against tough competition and has shown resilience, even as the offense finds its rhythm despite earlier setbacks.

1. Kevin O'Connell, Vikings

O'Connell has orchestrated a high-scoring offense that proves efficient under pressure. The Vikings rank highly in metrics such as expected points added, showcasing their offensive depth and adaptability.

Comeback Player of the Year

This award often hinges on players overcoming significant obstacles, typically injuries. Here are this season's top candidates:

3. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Jets

Rodgers’ performance has been mixed, battling against scrutiny and injury while attempting to navigate a challenging season.

2. Joe Burrow, QB, Bengals

Although Burrow started the season shaky, he has bounced back with improved performance, making him a strong contender.

1. J.K. Dobbins, RB, Chargers

Dobbins’ return from multiple injuries is remarkable, and he has become a crucial playmaker after overcoming significant hurdles.

Offensive Rookie of the Year

The competition is fierce this year, with several standouts emerging in their rookie campaigns:

3. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Cardinals

Harrison has quickly established himself as a key target, demonstrating impressive catching ability and performance metrics.

2. Malik Nabers, WR, Giants

Nabers is a standout receiver, commanding an exceptional target share and making big plays, proving vital to the Giants’ offense.

1. Jayden Daniels, QB, Commanders

Daniels has delivered impressive performances, leading his team effectively, and standing out as one of the league's top rookies so far.

Defensive Rookie of the Year

Rookies in defensive roles are typically harder to judge, but a few have shown exceptional promise:

3. Jared Verse, Edge, Rams

Leading the class in pressures, Verse's potential shines through despite struggling in a less productive overall Rams defense.

2. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Eagles

Mitchell has quickly become a vital part of the Eagles' secondary, showcasing playmaking skills that could lead him to a standout season.

1. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Texans

Lassiter has excelled ahead of his peers, consistently proving difficult to complete passes against, adding depth to Houston’s secondary.

Defensive Player of the Year

As defensive performances rise, the competition for DPOY has shifted dramatically this year:

3. Xavier McKinney, S, Packers

McKinney leads the league in interceptions, significantly impacting games and showcasing remarkable athleticism.

2. Aidan Hutchinson, Edge, Lions

While he leads the league in sacks, Hutchinson’s all-around impact on games has made him a defensive cornerstone for the Lions.

1. Fred Warner, LB, 49ers

Warner’s exceptional versatility and game-changing plays position him as a frontrunner for defensive honors this season.

Offensive Player of the Year

This award often highlights those who don’t take snaps under center:

3. Nico Collins, WR, Texans

Collins has emerged as the top target for C.J. Stroud, showcasing his yardage and efficiency.

2. Saquon Barkley, RB, Eagles

Barkley’s transition from the Giants to a superior Eagles squad has revitalized his performance and efficiency.

1. Derrick Henry, RB, Ravens

Henry has re-emerged as one of the league's most formidable backs, steadily increasing his total yardage and making impact plays each week.

Most Valuable Player

With several contenders, here are the top three quarterbacks vying for this honor:

3. Lamar Jackson, QB, Ravens

Jackson’s impressive statistics and dual-threat capabilities keep him firmly in the race despite some areas needing improvement.

2. Josh Allen, QB, Bills

Despite a rough outing last week, Allen has been exceptional, showing considerable upside even in challenging matchups.

1. Jayden Daniels, QB, Commanders

Daniels has demonstrated remarkable accuracy and agility, establishing himself as the prime MVP candidate with key performances that lead the Commanders.

As the NFL season unfolds, expect shifts in these rankings as various players showcase their talents. Stay tuned as we continue to analyze performances and award contenders.