Top 10 Best RBs All Time in NFL History

The history of the NFL is filled with exceptional running backs who have left an indelible mark on the league. From their breathtaking agility to their unparalleled ability to find the end zone, these elite RBs have redefined the game. But who are the greatest running backs ever to grace the gridiron? Are your favorites

The history of the NFL is filled with exceptional running backs who have left an indelible mark on the league. From their breathtaking agility to their unparalleled ability to find the end zone, these elite RBs have redefined the game. But who are the greatest running backs ever to grace the gridiron? Are your favorites among them? Prepare to be amazed as we unveil the top 10 best running backs in NFL history, based on their performance and impact on the game.

Key Takeaways:

  • Discover the greatest running backs to ever play in the NFL.
  • Explore the impact these legendary players had on the game.
  • Find out how their exceptional performances set them apart from their peers.
  • Reflect on whether your favorite running backs made the list.
  • Gain insights into what it takes to become one of the all-time best running backs in NFL history.

Marcus Allen

Marcus Allen, a Hall of Fame running back, enjoyed a remarkable NFL career. With a combination of speed, agility, and power, Allen was a force to be reckoned with on the field. Despite splitting carries with the legendary Bo Jackson for four seasons, Allen’s impact on the game cannot be understated.

During his NFL career, Allen amassed an impressive total of 17,654 yards from scrimmage. This included both rushing and receiving yards, showcasing his versatility as a running back. Allen’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a true dual-threat and a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Not only was Allen successful in gaining yards, but he also found the end zone with great frequency. Over the course of his career, he scored an impressive 144 rushing and receiving touchdowns, further solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats.

A true testament to Allen’s impact on the game came with his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Inducted in 2003, Allen’s inclusion among the game’s elite serves as a lasting tribute to his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport.

“Marcus Allen was a once-in-a-generation talent. His ability to make defenders miss and turn a routine play into a game-changing moment was truly remarkable.” – NFL Analyst

Allen’s Hall of Fame career, combined with his impressive stats in yards from scrimmage and rushing and receiving touchdowns, solidifies his place among the greatest running backs in NFL history.

StatisticsTotal
Yards from Scrimmage17,654
Rushing Touchdowns123
Receiving Touchdowns21

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Earl Campbell

Earl Campbell, known for his brutal running style, had a remarkable NFL career spanning eight seasons. In just five of those seasons, Campbell rushed for over 1,300 yards, solidifying himself as one of the most dominant running backs in the league. He amassed an impressive total of 9,407 rushing yards and 74 touchdowns in only 115 games.

Let’s take a closer look at Campbell’s extraordinary career:

SeasonRushing YardsTouchdowns
19781,45013
19791,69719
19801,93413
19811,37610
19831,30114

Throughout his career, Earl Campbell displayed incredible strength and determination, bulldozing his way through defense lines and leaving a lasting impact on the game. His bruising running style made him a force to be reckoned with, and his ability to consistently produce impressive rushing yards and touchdowns solidified his place among the NFL greats.

Gale Sayers

Gale Sayers, although limited by injuries, displayed his talent when healthy. He averaged an impressive 5.0 yards per carry and recorded over 800 rushing yards five times in his 68-game career. Sayers scored a total of 56 touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a running back.

Despite his relatively short career, Gale Sayers left an enduring impact on the NFL. Known for his elusiveness and speed, Sayers consistently dazzled fans and opponents alike with his explosive plays and highlight-reel performances.

“Gale Sayers was an exceptional talent, and he had the ability to change the outcome of a game with a single play. His speed and agility made him a nightmare to tackle, and his knack for finding the end zone set him apart from other running backs of his era.”

Throughout his NFL career, Sayers demonstrated his ability to make the most out of every touch. His remarkable average of 5.0 yards per carry is a testament to his effectiveness as a ball carrier, often turning short gains into significant yardage.

Despite facing various challenges, including knee injuries that ultimately cut his career short, Gale Sayers’s impact on the game cannot be overlooked. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977 and is remembered as one of the most electrifying players in NFL history.

Inspiring Performances and Achievements:

  • Recorded five seasons with over 800 rushing yards
  • Averaged an impressive 5.0 yards per carry
  • Scored a total of 56 touchdowns
  • Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977

O.J. Simpson

O.J. Simpson’s NFL career has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Despite the overshadowing scandals, his on-field performance as a running back should not be ignored. Over the course of his 11 seasons, Simpson accumulated an impressive total of 11,236 rushing yards, solidifying his position as one of the league’s top rushers.

In addition to his significant yardage, Simpson also had a remarkable single-season achievement when he rushed for 2,003 yards, a record-breaking feat at the time. His ability to consistently amass rushing yards showcased his skill and dominance on the field, making him a formidable force for any defense to contend with.

Simpson’s contribution to touchdowns should not be overlooked either. Throughout his career, he found the end zone an impressive 61 times, demonstrating his ability to find openings and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

“O.J. Simpson’s speed and agility on the field were unmatched. He had a unique ability to navigate through defenses and break away for big gains. The numbers speak for themselves, solidifying his place as one of the most dynamic running backs in NFL history.” – Former NFL player

While controversies may surround his name, O.J. Simpson’s NFL career remains an important part of the league’s history. His exceptional rushing yards and multitude of touchdowns place him among the elite running backs of his time.

Thurman Thomas

Thurman Thomas, a prominent figure in the history of the Buffalo Bills, played an integral role in the team’s four consecutive AFC championships. With his exceptional skills and dedication, Thomas contributed significantly to the Bills’ success during his NFL career.

One of Thomas’ notable achievements is surpassing the 1,000-yard mark for eight consecutive seasons, showcasing his consistency and reliability on the field. His ability to consistently rack up scrimmage yards, both rushing and receiving, made him a dangerous threat for opposing defenses.

Throughout his NFL career, Thomas amassed an impressive total of 16,352 scrimmage yards, placing him among the elite running backs of his time. His versatility and playmaking ability earned him numerous accolades and recognition within the league.

Thurman Thomas was not only a force in terms of scrimmage yards but also when it came to finding the end zone. He scored a total of 88 touchdowns, further solidifying his impact as a key offensive weapon for the Buffalo Bills.

Let’s take a closer look at Thurman Thomas’ career stats:

CategoryTotal
Rushing Yards12,074
Receiving Yards4,458
Rushing Touchdowns65
Receiving Touchdowns23

Table: Career Stats of Thurman Thomas

Thurman Thomas’ contribution to the Buffalo Bills and his impressive career statistics solidify his place among the top running backs of his era. His impact on the field and his ability to consistently make plays set him apart as a true NFL legend.

Derrick Henry

While not among the top 10 running backs of all time, Derrick Henry, the current active leader in career rushing yards, is making a strong case for this list. With 9,502 career rushing yards, Henry is climbing up the ranks and has the potential to join the elite group of all-time greats.

Henry’s incredible size and speed make him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 247 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of power and agility that allows him to break through tackles and outrun defenders.

“Derrick Henry’s ability to impose his will on opposing defenses is truly remarkable. He has the rare ability to dominate a game and take over in crucial moments,” said NFL analyst John Smith.

In the 2020 season, Henry became the eighth player in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season. His impressive performance earned him the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of the most formidable running backs in the league.

Henry’s career is still flourishing, and it will be exciting to see how he continues to make his mark in the record books. With each yard gained, he inches closer to cementing his place among the all-time greats of the game.

Active Leaders in Career Rushing Yards

PlayerCareer Rushing Yards
Derrick Henry9,502
Adrian Peterson14,820
Frank Gore16,000
LeSean McCoy11,102
Chris Johnson9,651

Marshall Faulk

Marshall Faulk had an extraordinary NFL career that spanned over a decade. He excelled on the field, showcasing his exceptional skills as both a runner and a receiver. Faulk’s performances were so impressive that he was awarded the NFL MVP title during a time when quarterbacks like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady dominated the league.

Throughout his career, Faulk accumulated an impressive 12,279 rushing yards, consistently demonstrating his ability to break through defenses and gain crucial yardage. His agility, speed, and vision made him a formidable opponent for any defense.

But Faulk’s impact extended beyond rushing touchdowns. He was also an immense threat in the passing game, with a remarkable 767 receptions. His ability to catch the ball and make decisive plays as a receiver was unparalleled. Faulk found the end zone an impressive 36 times through the air, showcasing his versatility and contributing significantly to his team’s success.

When it comes to touchdowns, few can match Faulk’s accomplishment of scoring 100 rushing touchdowns throughout his career. His nose for the end zone and ability to find the smallest gaps in the defense made him a consistent scoring threat whenever he touched the ball.

Marshall Faulk’s Notable Achievements:

  • 12,279 career rushing yards
  • 100 rushing touchdowns
  • 767 receptions
  • 36 receiving touchdowns
  • CategoryStatistic
    Rushing Yards12,279
    Rushing Touchdowns100
    Receptions767
    Receiving Touchdowns36

    Marshall Faulk will forever be remembered as one of the greatest running backs to have ever played in the NFL. His dynamic playing style, versatility, and ability to consistently make game-changing plays set him apart from his peers and solidified his place among the all-time greats.

    Adrian Peterson

    Adrian Peterson is widely recognized as one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history, leaving a lasting impact on the game. With an impressive career that spanned over a decade, Peterson’s relentless running style earned him a place among the elite.

    Throughout his NFL career, Peterson accumulated over 14,000 rushing yards, solidifying himself as one of the all-time leaders in this category. His explosive speed, agility, and determination allowed him to consistently break through defensive lines and accumulate yardage.

    In addition to his rushing prowess, Peterson showcased his versatility by contributing 305 receptions. This further highlights his ability to impact the game through various means, making him a valuable asset for any team.

    “Adrian Peterson’s raw athleticism coupled with his unwavering determination made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. His ability to consistently find openings and break tackles set him apart from his contemporaries.”

    With an impressive total of 120 career touchdowns, Peterson’s ability to find the end zone was unrivaled. His combination of power, speed, and vision allowed him to consistently find scoring opportunities and contribute to his team’s success.

    Adrian Peterson’s NFL Career Highlights:

    • Over 14,000 rushing yards
    • 120 career touchdowns
    • 305 receptions

    Adrian Peterson’s impact on the game will forever be remembered, and his name will remain synonymous with greatness in the NFL. His relentless drive and unmatched skill set solidify his place among the all-time greats.

    LaDainian Tomlinson

    LaDainian Tomlinson often goes unrecognized on lists of the best running backs, but his career speaks for itself. With over 13,000 total yards, 624 receptions, and 17 receiving touchdowns, Tomlinson established himself as a dominant force during his 11-year NFL career.

    Tomlinson’s ability to accumulate total yards showcased his versatility as a running back. Whether rushing the ball or catching passes out of the backfield, he consistently found ways to contribute to his team’s offense. His 13,684 total yards rank him among the top running backs in NFL history.

    “I was always told, in order to win championships, that your best players have to play well.”

    – LaDainian Tomlinson

    Not only was Tomlinson successful in gaining yards, but he was also a reliable target in the passing game. His 624 receptions demonstrate his ability to contribute as a receiver, making him a dual-threat out of the backfield.

    Tomlinson’s impact as a receiving threat was particularly evident in the red zone, where he scored 17 receiving touchdowns. His ability to find the end zone through the air added another dimension to his game and made him a difficult player to defend against.

    Throughout his NFL career, LaDainian Tomlinson consistently displayed his exceptional skills, accumulating yards and touchdowns both on the ground and through the air. His performance on the field solidifies his place as one of the most talented and versatile running backs in NFL history.

    Walter Payton

    Walter Payton, also known as “Sweetness,” solidified his position as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Throughout his remarkable career, Payton amassed over 16,000 rushing yards, demonstrating his exceptional ability to control the game from the backfield.

    What truly set Payton apart was his versatility. He wasn’t just a one-dimensional runner; he contributed greatly in the passing game as well. With 492 receptions, Payton was a reliable target for his quarterbacks, showcasing his ability to make an impact beyond rushing yards.

    But it wasn’t just Payton’s statistics that made him special. It was his relentless effort on the field, his unwavering determination to outwork anyone who stood in his way. Payton approached each game with a ferocity and passion that was unmatched, inspiring not only his teammates but fans across the nation.

    FAQ

    Who are the top 10 best running backs of all time in NFL history?

    The top 10 best running backs of all time in NFL history are Marcus Allen, Earl Campbell, Gale Sayers, O.J. Simpson, Thurman Thomas, Derrick Henry, Marshall Faulk, Adrian Peterson, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Walter Payton.

    What are Marcus Allen’s achievements in his NFL career?

    Marcus Allen, a Hall of Fame running back, accumulated a total of 17,654 yards from scrimmage and scored 144 rushing and receiving touchdowns.

    What were Earl Campbell’s stats during his NFL career?

    Earl Campbell rushed for 9,407 yards and scored 74 touchdowns in just 115 games, showcasing his powerful running style.

    How did Gale Sayers perform during his NFL career?

    Gale Sayers had an impressive career, averaging 5.0 yards per carry and recording over 800 rushing yards five times. He scored a total of 56 touchdowns, displaying his versatility as a running back.

    What were O.J. Simpson’s career highlights in the NFL?

    Despite controversy surrounding his personal life, O.J. Simpson amassed 11,236 rushing yards in his 11-season NFL career, including a single-season high of 2,003 yards. He also scored a total of 61 touchdowns.

    How did Thurman Thomas contribute to the Buffalo Bills’ success?

    Thurman Thomas played a crucial role in the Buffalo Bills’ success, helping them win four straight AFC championships. He surpassed the 1,000-yard mark for eight consecutive seasons and finished his career with an impressive 16,352 total scrimmage yards and 88 touchdowns.

    What achievements has Derrick Henry made in his career?

    While not among the top 10 running backs of all time, Derrick Henry, the current active leader in career rushing yards, has accumulated 9,502 rushing yards and is climbing up the ranks to join the elite group of all-time greats.

    What are Marshall Faulk’s notable accomplishments in the NFL?

    Marshall Faulk had a remarkable NFL career, winning the NFL MVP award during a time when quarterbacks like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady dominated the league. He amassed 12,279 rushing yards, scored 100 rushing touchdowns, and caught 767 passes, including 36 receiving touchdowns.

    What are Adrian Peterson’s career statistics in the NFL?

    Adrian Peterson, known for his relentless running style, has accumulated over 14,000 rushing yards and 120 touchdowns throughout his career. He has also contributed 305 receptions.

    What are LaDainian Tomlinson’s achievements in his NFL career?

    LaDainian Tomlinson established himself as a dominant force during his 11-year career, amassing over 13,000 total yards, 624 receptions, and 17 receiving touchdowns.

    Why is Walter Payton considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history?

    Walter Payton, known as “Sweetness,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. He accumulated over 16,000 rushing yards, 492 receptions, and showcased unparalleled effort and versatility on the field.

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