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NFL: Ranking every MVP winner in league history based on pro career

By Hans Themistode

NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 11: Running back Adrian Peterson #28 of the Minnesota Vikings carries the ball during a NFL game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 11, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Ronald C. Modra/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 11: Running back Adrian Peterson #28 of the Minnesota Vikings carries the ball during a NFL game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 11, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Ronald C. Modra/Getty Images) /
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Adrian Peterson
Adrian Peterson (Photo by Ronald C. Modra/Getty Images) /

Ranking every MVP winner in NFL history: 9. Adrian Peterson

Stats:

  • 14,820 rushing yards
  • 118 rushing touchdowns

He may not hold a valid argument in terms of the greatest running back of all-time debate but Adrian Peterson certainly deserves to be in the conversation.

It’s almost impossible to put into words just how great Adrian Peterson has been throughout the vast majority of his career. There was absolutely no feel out process for Peterson when he came into the league in 2007. He rushed for 1,341 yards as a rookie and continued to dominate the league during his prime years.

On three separate occasions, Peterson led the league in rushing yards. But it wasn’t just that Peterson could run over a defense whenever he pleased, it was his never-say-die attitude and resiliency that allowed him to nab an MVP award as well as a spot in the Hall of Fame once he retires.

After suffering torn ACL in 2011, not only was it believed that Peterson would be out for a protracted amount of time but once he did return, many believed he wouldn’t be the same. Well, technically, they were right, he was better.

Peterson’s 2012 season was his best ever. Despite coming off the knee injury, Peterson went on to rush for over 2,000 yards and 12 touchdowns. The sand in the hourglass of Peterson’s career might be winding down but he currently holds a top-five ranking in both rushing yards with 14,820 and rushing touchdowns with 118.

As we mentioned previously, he may not be considered the greatest running back ever but Peterson can sit at the table with anyone.

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