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Know your running backs? Enough to do well on the NFL Career Rushing Leaders – Choose Number or NFL Most Rushing Yards In A Game quiz? Here are the running backs with the top 10 career rushing yards.
1. Emmitt Smith – 18,355 Yards
Emmitt Smith holds the title as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher with an astounding 18,355 yards. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1990, Smith quickly made his mark on the league with his powerful, consistent running style. Over his 15-year career, Smith helped the Cowboys win three Super Bowl titles and earned the Super Bowl MVP in 1994. Known for his resilience, Smith rarely missed games, which contributed to his longevity and record-breaking numbers. Even as other backs emerged, he maintained his status as one of the most reliable rushers, finishing his career with the Arizona Cardinals. Smith’s record-breaking achievement has stood the test of time, and his legacy as a Cowboy and NFL legend remains untouched.
2. Walter Payton – 16,726 Yards
Walter “Sweetness” Payton was one of the most dynamic running backs to ever play in the NFL. Playing his entire 13-year career with the Chicago Bears, Payton’s unique combination of speed, power, and finesse made him nearly unstoppable. He set multiple records, including the single-game rushing record with 275 yards, a record that stood for over two decades. Payton’s relentless drive helped the Bears win Super Bowl XX. Off the field, he was beloved for his charitable work, and the NFL’s annual Man of the Year Award is named in his honor. His legacy as a player and person continues to inspire players and fans alike.
3. Frank Gore – 16,000 Yards
Frank Gore’s NFL career is defined by consistency and durability. Known for his “workhorse” style, Gore played 16 seasons, most notably with the San Francisco 49ers, and became the league’s third all-time leading rusher. Despite injuries early in his career, Gore showcased resilience, rushing for over 1,000 yards in nine seasons. He was known for his ability to grind out tough yards and keep the chains moving. His longevity in such a physically demanding position is a testament to his conditioning and work ethic. Gore’s career is celebrated not only for his stats but also for his leadership and mentorship of younger players.
4. Barry Sanders – 15,269 Yards
Barry Sanders was arguably the most electrifying running back in NFL history. Known for his incredible agility and ability to make defenders miss, Sanders consistently produced highlight-reel plays. He spent his entire 10-year career with the Detroit Lions, reaching 1,000 yards every season. In 1997, Sanders rushed for over 2,000 yards, an achievement few players have accomplished. Although he retired unexpectedly at the peak of his career, Sanders left an indelible mark on the game. He’s remembered not only for his statistics but for the unforgettable excitement he brought to each game.
5. Adrian Peterson – 14,918 Yards
Adrian Peterson burst onto the NFL scene with a rare combination of speed, strength, and vision. After being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2007, he quickly became one of the most dominant running backs in the league. Peterson’s best season came in 2012, when he rushed for 2,097 yards, coming close to breaking the single-season record. Over his career, Peterson has played for multiple teams, yet he remains a model of resilience and passion for the game. His power-running style and breakaway speed made him one of the most feared rushers in NFL history.
6. Curtis Martin – 14,101 Yards
Curtis Martin was known for his consistency and reliability. Over his 11-year career, primarily with the New York Jets and New England Patriots, Martin posted 1,000-yard seasons in each of his first 10 seasons. Known for his no-nonsense running style, Martin was a dependable feature back who played through injuries and led by example. He won the NFL rushing title in 2004 at age 31, proving that he was still among the best late in his career. Martin’s professionalism and dedication earned him a well-deserved place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
7. LaDainian Tomlinson – 13,684 Yards
LaDainian Tomlinson, known as “LT,” was one of the most dynamic backs in NFL history. Drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2001, Tomlinson quickly rose to prominence, combining speed and power with an innate ability to find the end zone. In 2006, he set the single-season touchdown record with 28 rushing touchdowns. His versatility as both a rusher and receiver made him a threat every time he touched the ball. Tomlinson’s passion for the game and highlight-filled career earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame and the admiration of fans worldwide.
8. Jerome Bettis – 13,662 Yards
Jerome Bettis, affectionately known as “The Bus,” was a powerful, bruising back who wore down defenses with his relentless running style. Bettis began his career with the Los Angeles Rams but found his true home with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he became a fan favorite. Known for his punishing style, Bettis was hard to bring down, especially in short-yardage situations. He capped his career with a Super Bowl victory in his hometown of Detroit, a fitting end to a storied career. Bettis’ powerful running and iconic personality made him one of the most beloved figures in NFL history.
9. Eric Dickerson – 13,259 Yards
Eric Dickerson set the standard for rushing excellence in the 1980s. Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1983, Dickerson set the single-season rushing record with 2,105 yards in 1984, a record that still stands. Known for his upright running style and speed, Dickerson consistently made big plays, often breaking off long runs. He played for multiple teams, including the Colts and Raiders, but his prime years with the Rams defined his career. Dickerson’s combination of size and speed made him one of the most dangerous backs of his era, and he remains a legend in NFL history.
10. Tony Dorsett – 12,739 Yards
Tony Dorsett brought speed and excitement to the Dallas Cowboys backfield. After winning the Heisman Trophy in college, he was drafted by the Cowboys in 1977, and he wasted no time making an impact. Dorsett was known for his quickness and ability to break big runs, including a 99-yard touchdown run in 1982, one of the most famous plays in NFL history. Over his 12-year career, Dorsett combined finesse and athleticism to earn a Super Bowl ring, four Pro Bowl selections, and a spot in the Hall of Fame. His contributions helped set a standard for future Cowboys and running backs alike.
