The Indianapolis Colts were not expected to emerge as AFC contenders this season.
Their 7-1 start has silenced critics and shifted the narrative surrounding the franchise.
While the transition from Daniel Jones to Anthony Richardson provided a spark, the driving force behind this surge has been Jonathan Taylor.
The running back has delivered week after week with performances that have elevated him into MVP conversations.
Taylor was asked on Thursday whether winning the MVP award would hold significance for him. His response was direct and clear.
“Of course.” Taylor said, per Kevin Bowen.
Jonathan Taylor on if winning MVP would mean something to him.
“Of course.”
50 votes for the MVP winner.
Todd Gurley in 2017 was the last running back to get a 1st place MVP vote. pic.twitter.com/WmakZxtw29
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) October 30, 2025
An MVP award for Taylor would extend beyond personal achievement.
It would represent recognition for a position that has largely been overlooked in recent seasons.
Only three running backs have won the honor in the past two decades, with just one claiming it in the last 18 years.
Shaun Alexander, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Adrian Peterson stand as the names who reached that level.
Taylor acknowledged their legacy as the foundation for running backs today, who continue pushing the position forward.
Heading into Week 9, Taylor leads the NFL in nearly every major rushing category, ranking first in attempts, yards, touchdowns, and total scores through eight games.
Taylor has accumulated 850 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns while adding 25 receptions for 206 yards and two receiving scores.
He is averaging 106.3 yards per game and has produced four games with three touchdowns.
The primary question surrounding Taylor remains his ability to maintain this production level.
Durability has been a concern throughout his career, with only one full season played.
That came in 2021 when he posted 1,811 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, along with 360 receiving yards and two receiving scores.
Taylor is currently on pace to surpass those totals if his health holds through the remainder of the season.
NEXT: Daniel Jones Reveals Honest Thoughts On Colts' Offensive Line