The Top 10 Best Running Backs in NFL History: A Deep Dive

Hello, sports enthusiasts! Today, we're going to lace up our cleats and dive into the world of pigskin, as we count down the top 10 best running backs in NFL history. These guys were more than just ball carriers; they were game changers, record breakers, and legends of the gridiron. So, grab a seat and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and top 10 best running backs.

The Criteria: What Makes a Running Back the Best?

Before we dive into our list, let's set some ground rules. We're looking at a combination of factors here:

1. 1. Statistics: Yards, touchdowns, and rushing titles are all important.
2. 2. Impact: How much did a player change the game when they were on the field?
3. 3. Consistency: We're looking for players who dominated over multiple seasons, not just a few years.
4. 4. Legacy: What did they do for the game and their teams?

With that out of the way, let's get to the main event!

10. Earl Campbell (1978-1985)

Earl Campbell burst onto the scene in 1978, winning the Heisman Trophy and being drafted first overall by the Houston Oilers. He was a human wrecking ball, known for his powerful running style and incredible strength.

Campbell won the NFL rushing title four times in his career, racking up over 9,000 yards and 74 touchdowns. He was a dominant force in the 1980s, and his impact on the game is still felt today.

9. Adrian Peterson (2007-Present)

Adrian Peterson is a modern-day marvel, known for his incredible combination of speed, power, and agility. He's one of only three players to win the NFL MVP award as a running back.

Peterson has rushed for over 14,000 yards and 110 touchdowns in his career. He's also the only player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season (2012). Despite injuries and off-field issues, Peterson remains one of the most dominant running backs of his era.

8. O.J. Simpson (1969-1979)

O.J. Simpson, or "The Juice," was a sensation in the 1970s. He was a versatile running back who could break tackles, make defenders miss, and run away from the competition.

Simpson won the NFL rushing title four times and finished his career with over 11,000 yards and 61 touchdowns. He was also the first player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season (1973). Simpson's career was sadly overshadowed by off-field issues, but his football accomplishments are undeniable.

7. Barry Sanders (1989-1998)

Barry Sanders was a magician on the football field. He had moves that defied logic, and defenders often looked like they were playing a different sport.

Sanders won the NFL rushing title four times and finished his career with over 15,000 yards and 99 touchdowns. He was also named to the Pro Bowl 10 times in his 10-year career. Sanders' career was cut short by retirement, but his impact on the game is still felt today.

6. Walter Payton (1975-1987)

Walter Payton, known as "Sweetness," was a dominant force in the 1970s and 1980s. He was a power runner who could wear down defenses and break tackles with ease.

Payton won the NFL rushing title five times and finished his career with over 16,000 yards and 130 touchdowns. He also held the NFL record for most career rushing yards for many years. Payton's combination of power, durability, and consistency makes him one of the greatest running backs of all time.

5. Eric Dickerson (1983-1993)

Eric Dickerson was a human highlight reel in the 1980s. He had the speed to outrun defenders and the power to run them over.

Dickerson won the NFL rushing title three times and finished his career with over 13,000 yards and 96 touchdowns. He also holds the NFL record for most rushing yards in a single season (2,105 in 1984). Dickerson's combination of speed, power, and elusiveness makes him one of the most dangerous running backs in NFL history.

4. Jim Brown (1957-1965)

Jim Brown was a dominant force in the 1950s and 1960s. He was a power runner who could break tackles and run over defenders.

Brown won the NFL rushing title eight times (!) and finished his career with over 12,000 yards and 106 touchdowns. He also led the Cleveland Browns to three NFL championships. Brown's combination of power, durability, and consistency makes him one of the greatest running backs of all time.

3. Marshall Faulk (1994-2005)

Marshall Faulk was a complete back in the 1990s and 2000s. He could run, catch, and even throw the ball. He was a matchup nightmare for defenses.

Faulk won the NFL rushing title twice and finished his career with over 12,000 yards and 100 touchdowns on the ground. He also caught 800 passes for over 6,000 yards and 36 touchdowns. Faulk's versatility and consistency make him one of the greatest running backs of all time.

2. Jerry Rice (1985-2004)

Jerry Rice is the greatest wide receiver of all time, but he was also one of the greatest running backs. He was a complete player who could run, catch, and block.

Rice won the NFL rushing title three times and finished his career with over 15,000 yards and 110 touchdowns on the ground. He also caught 1,549 passes for over 22,000 yards and 197 touchdowns. Rice's combination of longevity, production, and versatility makes him one of the greatest players in NFL history.

1. Lawrence Taylor (1981-1993)

Lawrence Taylor is the greatest defensive player of all time, but he was also one of the greatest running backs. He was a dominant force on both sides of the ball.

Taylor won the NFL rushing title twice and finished his career with over 12,000 yards and 106 touchdowns on the ground. He also caught 62 passes for over 500 yards and 5 touchdowns. Taylor's combination of speed, power, and versatility makes him one of the greatest players in NFL history.

Honorable Mentions

Before we wrap up, we want to give a shoutout to some other great running backs who just missed our top 10:

Tony Dorsett Marcus Allen Thurman Thomas Curtis Martin Franco Harris John Riggins Lenny Moore Gale Sayers Jim Taylor Larry Csonka

Each of these players had incredible careers and made significant contributions to the game.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! Our list of the top 10 best running backs in NFL history. These guys were more than just ball carriers; they were game changers, record breakers, and legends of the gridiron. They inspired generations of players and left an indelible mark on the game.

Who's your favorite running back on our list? Did we miss anyone you think should be included? Let us know in the comments below! And as always, thanks for reading!