The Most Famous Running Back, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the running back you think is the most famous!

Updated on Apr 16, 2024 08:21

In the fast-paced world of football, determining who the most famous running back is can often spark lively debates among fans. These athletes, known for their agility and power, carry the hopes of their teams on their shoulders as they dash down the field. Having a list where fans can vote for their favorite running back brings everyone’s opinion into the spotlight, creating a dynamic and engaging community dialog. This interactive system allows each vote to influence the live rankings of running backs, making the results a real-time reflection of public opinion. Enthusiasts can see how their favorites compare against other talented contenders, potentially changing the way they view the stats and stories of these sports stars. By participating, fans not only contribute their viewpoint but also stay connected with the latest trends and discussions in the football world.

Who Is the Most Famous Running Back?

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31
votes
The original uploader was Timothymonaghan at English Wikipedia. · CC BY-SA 3.0

Barry Sanders

Barry Sanders is considered by many to be the greatest running back of all time, Sanders was a ten-time Pro Bowler and won the NFL MVP award in 1997.
Barry Sanders in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous college football player
- Position 8 of 10 in Most talented NFL players of all time
2

24
votes
Jeno's · Public domain

Walter Payton

Walter Payton is known as "Sweetness," Payton was a nine-time Pro Bowler and won the NFL MVP award in 1977. He held the record for most career rushing yards until it was broken by Emmitt Smith.
Walter Payton in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Chicago Bears quarterback
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Walter
- Position 5 of 10 in Most talented NFL players of all time
3

29
votes
John Trainor · CC BY 2.0

Emmitt Smith

Emmitt Smith is the all-time leading rusher in NFL history, Smith won three Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys and was a eight-time Pro Bowler.
Emmitt Smith in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous players for the Dallas Cowboys
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Smith
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular Dallas Cowboys jersey
4

10
votes
Phil Konstantin · Public domain

Jim Brown

Jim Brown is considered one of the greatest athletes of all time, Brown was a nine-time Pro Bowler and won three NFL MVP awards. He led the league in rushing yards for eight of his nine seasons.
Jim Brown in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most talented NFL players of all time
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous lacrosse player
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous person in the Hall of Fame
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous college football player
5

18
votes

Blueag9 · Public domain

Eric Dickerson

Dickerson set the single-season rushing record in 1984 and was a six-time Pro Bowler. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first seven seasons.
6

12
votes
Gerald Johnson · Public domain

O.J. Simpson

O.J. Simpson is known as "The Juice," Simpson won the Heisman Trophy in college and was a five-time Pro Bowler in the NFL. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in six seasons.
O.J. Simpson in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous criminal in America
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous convict
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8
votes

TankedBevo of ShaggyBevo.com · CC BY 2.5

Earl Campbell

Campbell won the Heisman Trophy in college and was a five-time Pro Bowler in the NFL. He won the NFL MVP award in 1979 and rushed for over 1,000 yards in four seasons.
8

9
votes

Gamerscore Blog · CC BY-SA 2.0

Marshall Faulk

Faulk was a seven-time Pro Bowler and won the NFL MVP award in 2000. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in seven seasons and was also a threat as a receiver.
9

3
votes
Mike Morbeck · CC BY-SA 2.0

Adrian Peterson

Peterson has rushed for over 14,000 yards in his career and won the NFL MVP award in 2012. He has been named to the Pro Bowl eight times.
Adrian Peterson in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Adrian
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4
votes

Blueag9 · Public domain

Gale Sayers

Gale Sayers is known as the "Kansas Comet," Sayers was a four-time Pro Bowler and won the NFL Rookie of the Year award in 1965. He had a short career due to injuries, but is still considered one of the greatest running backs of all time.

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Ranking factors for famous running back

Career Statistics

The player's overall rushing yards, touchdowns, and other statistical achievements can help determine their impact and productivity on the field.
Awards and Accolades

Consideration should be given to the number of Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, MVP awards, and other prestigious titles the player has received throughout their career.
Team Success

A running back's contribution to their team's success, including playoff appearances, Super Bowl wins, and team records, can influence their fame and perception in the league.
Longevity and Consistency

The length of a running back's career and their ability to perform at a high level consistently over time can establish their reputation and impact on the game.
Cultural Impact

Outside of on-field performance, a player's influence on popular culture, their marketing appeal, endorsements, and overall public recognition can also contribute to their fame as a running back.
Highlight Moments

Memorable plays, record-breaking performances, and iconic moments that resonate with fans and the media can elevate a running back's fame and legacy.
Overall Legacy

Considering the player's overall impact on the sport, their influence on future generations of running backs, and how they are remembered by fans and fellow players can play a significant role in determining their fame.

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

1528 views
147 votes
10 ranked items

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.

More information on most famous running back

Background Information: Who is the Most Famous Running Back? The position of running back in American football is among the most prestigious and highly sought-after positions on the field. Running backs are responsible for carrying the ball during offensive plays, and their success can make all the difference in a game. Over the years, many legendary running backs have made their mark on the game, leaving behind a legacy that has been celebrated and debated by fans and experts alike. When it comes to determining the most famous running back of all time, there are several candidates to consider. Many fans and analysts point to Jim Brown as the most dominant running back in NFL history. Brown played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, and his record-breaking performances and powerful running style earned him a place in the Hall of Fame. Other notable running backs include Walter Payton, Emmitt Smith, and Barry Sanders, all of whom have set records and won accolades for their contributions to the game. Ultimately, the question of who is the most famous running back is one that is open to interpretation. Each fan has their own favorite player, and there are many factors to consider when assessing a player's legacy. However, there is no denying that running backs have played a crucial role in shaping the history of American football, and their contributions will continue to be celebrated for years to come.