Before the current pass-happy era of the NFL, there was once a time where running backs were almost as revered and valued as quarterbacks
In the old days, things were much more about “ground and pound” football, and having an elite running back could change the trajectory of a franchise almost as much as a quarterback could. That’s why, when we look back at the list of the greatest running backs of all time, so many of these names are so familiar to football fans.
Without further delay, here’s our list of the greatest running backs in NFL history:
25. Roger Craig
Roger Craig belongs on this list because of one fact: there’s only one other player in the history of the league (who also happens to be on this list) who can join Craig in laying claim to being the greatest “dual-threat” running back (rushing and receiving) of all time. Craig was the first running back in NFL history to record 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving in the same season; that feat has only been accomplished one other time since 1985, when he did it.
Craig also broke 2,000 combined yards two separate times during his career, and is currently 15th in all-time combined rushing and receiving yards in NFL history. The fact that he, one of the most dynamic players of the 1980’s and invaluable piece of the great San Francisco 49ers’ teams of that era, has not been inducted into the Hall of Fame, is a travesty that can’t be excused.
Seasons Played: 11
Pro Bowl Selections: 3x selection
Hall of Fame: Not Inducted
