Top 10 Best Running Backs of All Time
Running backs are the heart and soul of any football team. They are the ones who carry the ball, break tackles, and score touchdowns. They are the players who can change the game in an instant. Over the years, there have been many great running backs, but who are the best of the best?
Here is a list of the top 10 best running backs of all time:
1. Jim Brown
Jim Brown is widely considered the greatest running back of all time. He played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965 and dominated the league. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler, eight-time All-Pro, and three-time NFL MVP. He retired early, but his records still stand today, including the highest career rushing yards per game average.
2. Walter Payton
Walter Payton, also known as "Sweetness," is another legendary running back. He played for the Chicago Bears from 1975 to 1987 and holds the NFL record for most career rushing yards. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler, five-time All-Pro, and NFL MVP in 1977.
3. Barry Sanders
Barry Sanders is known for his incredible agility and elusiveness. He played for the Detroit Lions from 1989 to 1998 and was a 10-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and NFL MVP in 1997. He holds the NFL record for most rushing yards per game average and retired early, but he remains a legend.
4. Emmitt Smith
Emmitt Smith holds the NFL record for most career rushing yards and touchdowns. He played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1990 to 2002 and was a 15-time Pro Bowler, eight-time All-Pro, and NFL MVP in 1993. He is a cornerstone of the Cowboys' dynasty and one of the most decorated running backs ever.
5. Eric Dickerson
Eric Dickerson is known for his powerful running style and incredible speed. He played for the Los Angeles Rams from 1983 to 1987 and the Indianapolis Colts from 1987 to 1993. He was a six-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1983.
6. LaDainian Tomlinson
LaDainian Tomlinson was known for his explosiveness and ability to break tackles. He played for the San Diego Chargers from 2001 to 2009 and the New York Jets from 2010 to 2011. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler, five-time All-Pro, and NFL MVP in 2006.
7. Adrian Peterson
Adrian Peterson is known for his incredible speed and power. He played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2007 to 2016, the New Orleans Saints in 2017, the Washington Redskins in 2018 and 2019, the Detroit Lions in 2020, and the Tennessee Titans in 2021. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and NFL MVP in 2012.
8. Earl Campbell
Earl Campbell was known for his bruising running style. He played for the Houston Oilers from 1978 to 1985 and was a four-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1978. He also won the NFL MVP award in 1979.
9. Tony Dorsett
Tony Dorsett was a versatile and explosive running back. He played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1977 to 1988 and was a nine-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and NFL MVP in 1979. He is part of the iconic Cowboys team that won Super Bowl XII.
10. Gale Sayers
Gale Sayers is considered one of the most elusive and exciting running backs of all time. He played for the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1971 and was a seven-time Pro Bowler, five-time All-Pro, and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1965. His career was cut short by injuries, but he remains a legend.
This is just a small selection of the many great running backs who have graced the NFL. These players have all made their mark on the game and inspired generations of fans.
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