Darren McFadden: Is Oakland Raiders RB a Legitimate NFL MVP Candidate?

Darren McFadden is a legitimate NFL MVP candidate. The Oakland Raider's star running back is an underrated player, often lumped into the negativity surrounding the Raiders. However, he has unbelievable talent and racking up a ton of yardage.

He is the focal point of the Raiders offense, contributing in both the running and passing game.  McFadden is a homerun threat, capable of scoring from anywhere on the field. Hue Jackson has done a great job finding different ways to use his talented running back.

McFadden's production means a little more, based on the fact that teams know he is getting the football. The Raiders make no secret about who there most important player is, McFadden. He has accounted for more than 130 yards of offense in each of the first three games.

Last season, McFadden was finally able to remain healthy. While, setting career highs in rushing yards (1,157), rushing touchdowns (7), receptions (47), and receiving yards (507). That production is impressive enough to warrant some MVP attention. 

It appears that McFadden is ready to make an even stronger run at the award.

McFadden might not get the media love necessary to win the award. He plays for the Raiders, who rarely receive positive media coverage. However, the team hasn't done a whole lot worthy of positive coverage.

He also needs his teammates to help him out.

Outside of McFadden, the Raiders don't have a very consistent offense. They posses several fast but inconsistent players. McFadden needs someone to emerge as every-down threat, in order to get some defenders out of the box.

Lastly, the Raiders need to keep winning. The MVP almost always is on a winning team, even more so on playoff caliber teams. McFadden needs for the Raiders to remain competitive and nationally relevant.

McFadden has the talent and production needed to win the MVP trophy. He now needs the entire Raiders organization to help.

Jon Dove is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report, covering the NFL and NFL draft. Check him out on Twitter @Jon_Dove42.