Jonathan Taylor made his season debut on Sunday, one day after signing a three-year, $42 million extension with the Colts.

It’s a win-win deal for both parties, giving Taylor security while the Colts now have one of their top offensive linemen for the next few seasons.

After Indianapolis’ win over Tennessee on Sunday, Taylor said he “absolutely” believes his new deal is a win for his teammates around the league.

“Anytime a running back can go out and perform but also have some safety, it shows that a running back is essential,” Taylor said.

While Taylor was asked if he would play for the Colts without a new deal, he deflected his answer.

“I think with the new contract, it doesn’t even matter because of the ability to work with him [team owner] Jim Irsay, [G.M.] “The No. 1 goal has always been, for Chris Ballard and the entire organization, to get healthy,” Taylor said. “I think that’s where things got misunderstood. Everyone was on the same page about ‘Jonathan needs to get healthy.’ Jonathan wants to get healthy. We want Jonathan healthy.

“I think the fact that it’s been delayed a little bit, first of all, is a big blow to myself because you plan everything after surgery and then it takes a little longer and you have to keep grinding, keep grinding, keep grinding. You don’t know when you’re going to get out of it, and you start grinding out,” he said. “Little by little every day. You start doing more and more and then you start progressing and then it leads you to this – winning the division at home.”

Taylor added: “At the end of the day, it’s always the organization’s decision [to give an extension]. Being able to put yourself in the best position is always the #1 thing you can do and for me, that was being healthy.

In his first appearance of the season, Taylor recorded six carries for 18 yards, as well as a 16-yard catch. Zach Moss led the offense with 165 yards on 23 carries and had two catches for 30 yards.

But now Taylor and Moss could be a dynamic duo in the Colts’ backfield.

“I think it could get really scary,” Taylor said. “I mean, and I think you guys have had a taste – actually, as of today you haven’t had a taste, you guys have had a taste of the last few weeks with Zach. Now, it’s on me to continue to do my part and continue to help this team.”

“That’s what I’m going to do every day — grind inch by inch and we’ll get there.”