As the NFL season reaches its fifth week, the excitement and anticipation among fans and analysts alike continue to grow. With teams beginning to enter their bye weeks and the season reaching its one-third mark, it may seem premature to start discussing potential MVP candidates. However, that hasn’t stopped ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky from boldly sharing his thoughts on two standout players from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In a recent segment on ESPN’s “Get Up,” Orlovsky ranked his top five early MVP candidates, and to the surprise of many, he placed two Buccaneers players on his list – quarterback Tom Brady and wide receiver Mike Evans.

Brady, who joined the Buccaneers in the offseason after spending 20 record-breaking years with the New England Patriots, has been nothing short of impressive in his new home. At 44 years old, he continues to defy age and expectations, leading the Buccaneers to a 4-1 record and throwing for 1,375 yards and 12 touchdowns so far this season. His leadership and veteran presence have also been crucial in the development and success of the Buccaneers’ young offense.

Evans, on the other hand, has been a consistent force for the Buccaneers since he entered the league in 2014. This season, he has already recorded 27 receptions for 368 yards and four touchdowns, solidifying his place as one of the league’s top receivers. With his impressive size, speed, and catching ability, Evans has become a favorite target for Brady and a key contributor to the Buccaneers’ high-powered offense.

Orlovsky’s bold statement about these two Buccaneers players has sparked a lot of discussion and debate among fans and analysts. Some may argue that it’s too early to consider them as MVP candidates, while others believe they deserve to be in the conversation.

Regardless of where one stands on this issue, there’s no denying the impact that Brady and Evans have had on the Buccaneers’ success this season. Their chemistry on the field is undeniable, and their individual performances have been nothing short of outstanding.

But what makes Brady and Evans stand out as potential MVP candidates? For one, they have both played a significant role in the Buccaneers’ dominant offense, which currently ranks fourth in the league in total yards per game. They have also shown the ability to come up big in crucial moments, with Brady leading four fourth-quarter comebacks and Evans making clutch catches in the end zone.

Furthermore, their leadership and experience cannot be overlooked. Brady’s presence has brought a winning mentality and championship experience to a young Buccaneers team that hasn’t made the playoffs since 2007. Evans, who has been with the team through its ups and downs, has emerged as a leader and mentor for the younger players, helping them improve and grow as professionals.

Of course, it’s still early in the season, and a lot can change between now and the end of the year. Other players, such as Derrick Henry, Aaron Rodgers, and Kyler Murray, have also been making strong cases for MVP consideration. But there’s no denying that Brady and Evans have put themselves in a prime position to be in the conversation.

In the end, Orlovsky’s bold statement serves as a reminder of the impact that these two Buccaneers players have had on the league and their team. Whether they end up winning the MVP award or not, there’s no doubt that Brady and Evans will continue to be key players for the Buccaneers as they strive for a deep playoff run and possibly even a Super Bowl title.

So, as the bye weeks continue and the season progresses, keep an eye on these two Buccaneers players and their impressive performances. Who knows, they may just prove Orlovsky right and make a strong case for the NFL’s most prestigious individual award.