NFL top 5 running backs
Running back has been a crucial position and a mainstay in the NFL since its inception. Even in the modern world of football, where quarterbacks and high-octane passing assaults are all the rage, a powerful rushing offense may make all the difference between winning and losing. Big throw plays are fun to watch, but nothing is more exciting than watching a skilled running back rip through a defense.
There have been many exceptional running backs throughout the years. There is only room for the 25 finest on this list, despite the fact that many of them deserve to be there. Here are the top 25 running backs in NFL history, ranked according to a variety of criteria, including statistics, personal records, team achievements, supporting cast, an era in which they played, and overall impact on the sport.
The NFL top 10 running backs of all time is one of the most passionately debated of these lists. It would be difficult to find a die-hard football fan who does not have a stance on the issue, and it is unlikely that any two persons would agree on the exact sequence.
1. Frank Gore
Gore probably doesn’t get the credit he deserves. But his statistics fairly reflect a standout 16-season career. Gore is one of the greatest running backs of all time, according to statistics. The five-time Pro Bowler is third all-time in rushing and fourth all-time in yards from scrimmage. He also made history by being the first and only NFL player to carry for 1,200 yards in 12 consecutive seasons.
2. Tiki Barber
With at least 1,200 yards gained on the ground in each of his final six seasons with the Giants, Barber retired at the pinnacle of his career. One of the best all-purpose backs of all time, his versatility comes from his prowess as a pass-catcher and blocker. For yards after the scrimmage, he is ranked 15th in NFL history.
3. Shaun Alexander
Alexander is one of just nine running backs with at least 100 rushing touchdowns in NFL history. The 2005 NFL MVP scored 112 touchdowns overall in only 96 starts. Alexander had 27 running touchdowns in a season in 2005, which tied for second-most.
4. Terrell Davis
Davis would likely rank much higher on this list if it weren’t for the fact that his career was cut short due to injuries. In a short period of time, he managed to do a lot. He is one of just eight sportsmen to rush for at least 2,000 yards in a season. Davis also captured two Super Bowl championships with the Broncos, the Super Bowl MVP, and the league MVP in 1998.
5. Edgerrin James
James is the Colts’ all-time top rusher. Additionally, he ranks 13th all-time in the NFL for most rushing yards gained. Due to his dynamic rushing style and pass-catching abilities, he was one of the league’s most dangerous running backs in league history. The Pro Football Hall of Fame accepted James as a member of the Class of 2020.