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The Daily Ranker presents the 10 greatest running backs of all time.
If given the opportunity to choose one running back to start a game, who would that be? The choice is crucial, as the running back often sets the tone for the entire offensive strategy.
In the debate of who to select for first-and-10, here are the ten running backs who have left an indelible mark on the game.
1. Emmitt Smith
Emmitt Smith was instrumental in leading the Dallas Cowboys to consecutive Super Bowl victories in 1993. He rushed for 1,418 yards that season, earning the MVP title, and followed it up with a remarkable 132 yards and two touchdowns in Super Bowl XXVIII, once again claiming MVP honors. Smith’s career continued to flourish, culminating in a record-breaking total of 18,335 rushing yards and 164 rushing touchdowns, solidifying his place as the NFL’s all-time leader.
Smith’s legacy is not just about numbers; it’s about his impact on the game and the Cowboys’ dynasty.
2. Walter Payton
Walter Payton, known as “Sweetness,” held the all-time rushing record before Smith. Rushing for 16,726 yards during his career, Payton was a force on the field from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s. His accolades include eight All-Pro selections and nine Pro Bowl appearances. In 1977, he rushed for an astonishing 1,852 yards and 14 touchdowns, earning both MVP and Offensive Player of the Year honors. Payton’s leadership and skill were pivotal in the Bears’ Super Bowl run in 1985, showcasing his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
3. Adrian Peterson
Adrian Peterson’s career is marked by extraordinary seasons, particularly in 2012 when he rushed for 2,097 yards, the second-most in a single season. His performance earned him the MVP award, making him the last running back to achieve this honor in a quarterback-dominated league. Peterson’s journey began with an Offensive Rookie of the Year title, and he made history by rushing for 296 yards in one game, a record that still stands. By the end of his career, he ranked fifth in rushing yards with 14,918 and fourth in rushing touchdowns with 120.
4. Barry Sanders
Barry Sanders dazzled fans with his elusive running style and explosive speed. He was a Pro Bowler and All-Pro in every season he played, from 1989 to 1998. Sanders won the MVP award in 1997 and led the league in rushing four times. Despite retiring abruptly before the 1999 season, he left a lasting legacy, finishing fourth all-time in rushing yards with 15,269 and 11th in rushing touchdowns with 99. His ability to change direction and evade defenders made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
5. Jim Brown
Jim Brown’s career, though brief, was nothing short of legendary. He was a Pro Bowler in all nine seasons he played, winning the MVP award three times. Brown led the league in rushing for eight seasons and was instrumental in the Cleveland Browns’ 1964 NFL championship victory. Upon his retirement in 1966, he held the record for all-time rushing yards at 12,312 and total touchdowns at 126, records that stood for decades. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles set a standard for future generations.
6. LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tomlinson’s 2006 season stands out as one of the most remarkable in NFL history. He rushed for 1,815 yards and an incredible 28 touchdowns, while also contributing 508 receiving yards and three touchdowns through the air. This performance set the record for the most touchdowns in a single season with 31, earning him the MVP award. Tomlinson was a consistent performer throughout his career, finishing with 13,684 rushing yards and 162 total touchdowns, ranking him among the all-time greats.
7. Marshall Faulk
Marshall Faulk was a pioneer of the dual-threat running back role, excelling as both a rusher and receiver. In 2000, he rushed for 1,359 yards and 18 touchdowns while also catching 830 yards worth of passes with eight receiving touchdowns. His contribution helped the St. Louis Rams secure a Super Bowl victory in 1999. Faulk concluded his career with 19,190 all-purpose yards, placing him eighth all-time, and 136 total touchdowns, ranking seventh overall.
8. Eric Dickerson
9. Curtis Martin
Curtis Martin was a model of consistency throughout his career, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his first ten seasons. He began his career with the New England Patriots, helping them reach the Super Bowl in 1996, before continuing his success with the New York Jets. Martin’s best season came in 2004 when he rushed for 1,697 yards. He finished with 14,101 rushing yards, ranking sixth all-time, and was honored with five Pro Bowl selections.
10. Frank Gore
Frank Gore mirrored Curtis Martin’s consistency throughout his lengthy career. The San Francisco 49ers running back rushed for over 1,000 yards in all but three seasons from 2006 to 2016, playing a key role in the team’s success during that period. Gore earned five Pro Bowl selections and achieved an All-Pro honor in 2006 when he rushed for a career-high 1,695 yards. His remarkable longevity and durability allowed him to finish third all-time in rushing yards with exactly 16,000.
Honorable mentions:
Tony Dorsett
Marcus Allen
Thurman Thomas
Franco Harris
Edgerrin James
