The Most Famous Running Back, Ranked

Choose the running back you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 26, 2024 07:48
Fans of football often debate the skills and legacies of top running backs, each bringing unique perspectives based on their favorite teams, gameplay memories, and player statistics. Understanding who stands out in this crucial position helps fans connect over past games and legendary performances. This online voting system allows everyone to have a say in ranking the best of the best, contributing to a comprehensive list that reflects a wide array of opinions and insights. By participating in the voting process, users contribute to a broader conversation about sportsmanship, strategy, and athletic prowess. This dynamic ranking changes with each vote, offering a real-time reflection of public opinion. It invites an interactive experience where every fan’s opinion helps shape the ongoing history and appreciation of professional football running backs.

Who Is the Most Famous Running Back?

  1. 1
    31
    points
    Barry Sanders

    Barry Sanders

    An elusive runner known for his speed and agility, Sanders played for the Detroit Lions and is one of the most highly regarded running backs in NFL history.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 15,269
    • Pro Bowl Selections: 10
    • MVP Awards: 1
  2. 2
    29
    points
    Emmitt Smith

    Emmitt Smith

    The NFL's all-time leading rusher, Smith played primarily for the Dallas Cowboys, winning three Super Bowls and earning MVP honors.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 18,355
    • Super Bowl Championships: 3
    • Pro Bowl Selections: 8
  3. 3
    24
    points
    Walter Payton

    Walter Payton

    Nicknamed 'Sweetness', he was a prolific running back for the Chicago Bears of the NFL, remembered for his agility and versatility.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 16,726
    • Super Bowl Championships: 1
    • MVP Awards: 1
  4. 4
    18
    points
    Eric Dickerson

    Eric Dickerson

    Holding the record for most rushing yards in a single season, Dickerson's blend of size, speed, and vision made him a dominant force in the 1980s.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 13,259
    • Single Season Rushing Record: 2,105 yards
    • Pro Bowl Selections: 6
  5. 5
    10
    points
    Jim Brown

    Jim Brown

    An American former professional football player and actor, regarded as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the NFL.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 12,312
    • NFL Championships: 1
    • MVP Awards: 3
  6. 6
    9
    points
    Marshall Faulk

    Marshall Faulk

    Known for his versatility, Faulk was a key component of the St. Louis Rams' 'Greatest Show on Turf', contributing significantly both as a runner and a receiver.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 12,279
    • Total Touchdowns: 136
    • MVP Awards: 1
  7. 7
    3
    points
    Adrian Peterson

    Adrian Peterson

    A powerful and explosive runner, Peterson has consistently been one of the top running backs in the league since being drafted in 2007.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 14,918
    • 2000-yard Seasons: 1
    • MVP Awards: 1
  8. 8
    0
    points
    Tony Dorsett

    Tony Dorsett

    A Dallas Cowboys legend, Dorsett's combination of speed and agility made him one of the most feared running backs of his time.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 12,739
    • Super Bowl Championships: 1
    • Pro Bowl Selections: 4
  9. 9
    0
    points
    Franco Harris

    Franco Harris

    Best known for his part in the 'Immaculate Reception', Harris was a key figure in the Pittsburgh Steelers' dynasty of the 1970s.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 12,120
    • Super Bowl Championships: 4
    • Pro Bowl Selections: 9
  10. 10
    0
    points

    LaDainian Tomlinson

    A versatile back known for his ability to both run and catch the ball, Tomlinson set numerous records during his tenure with the San Diego Chargers.
    • Career Rushing Yards: 13,684
    • Total Touchdowns: 162
    • MVP Awards: 1

Missing your favorite running back?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous running back. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Back is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1838 views
  • 124 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Back once every 24 hours. The rank of each Back is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Running Back

Barry Sanders
Rank #1 for the most famous running back: Barry Sanders (Source)
The running back is a key position in football. This player lines up in the backfield, behind the quarterback. The role of the running back is diverse. They run with the ball, catch passes, and block. Their main task is to advance the ball on the ground.

The history of the running back position is rich. In the early days of football, teams relied heavily on the run. Passing was less common. Running backs were the stars of the game. They often carried the ball on most plays. Their skills were crucial to their teams' success.

Over time, the game evolved. Passing became more prominent. Yet, the running back position remained vital. Teams needed players who could gain yards on the ground. Running backs had to be fast, strong, and agile. They had to read defenses and find gaps to exploit.

Training for running backs is intense. They work on speed, strength, and endurance. Drills focus on footwork, ball handling, and vision. They practice running through obstacles and breaking tackles. They also learn to catch passes and block defenders. This training prepares them for the physical demands of the game.

The role of the running back can vary. Some are known for their speed. They can outrun defenders and make big plays. Others rely on power. They break tackles and gain tough yards. Some are versatile. They can run, catch, and block with equal skill. This versatility makes them valuable assets to their teams.

Running backs often face tough defenses. Opponents try to stop them at all costs. They must be resilient. Injuries are common due to the physical nature of the position. Running backs need to stay in top shape to perform well.

The impact of a great running back can be profound. They can change the outcome of a game with a single play. Their ability to gain yards and score touchdowns can lead their team to victory. Fans admire their skill and determination. They become legends in the sport.

In modern football, the role of the running back continues to evolve. Some teams use multiple running backs to share the load. This approach keeps players fresh and reduces the risk of injury. Other teams rely on a single star running back. These players often carry the bulk of the workload.

Despite the changes in the game, the running back remains a crucial position. Their ability to gain yards on the ground and contribute in various ways makes them indispensable. They are often the heart and soul of their teams.

The legacy of the running back is enduring. Many have left a lasting mark on the sport. They are remembered for their incredible performances and contributions to their teams. Their stories inspire future generations of players.

In conclusion, the running back position is one of the most important in football. Their skills, versatility, and impact on the game make them stand out. They face many challenges but continue to excel. The running back will always be a key player in the sport.

Share this article