Five Best Running Backs in NFL History

Throughout the history of the NFL, there have been numerous running backs that have captured our collective imaginations while simultaneously taking our breath away. When it comes to ranking the best running backs of all-time, the task is more than formidable.




Sure, the top two or three running backs aren’t hard to pick out, but the remaining two positions could go to numerous runners. It really is a matter of opinion, when it comes to selecting the best running backs of all-time.
Having said that, I have compiled my list of the five best running backs in NFL history. In order, here they are.

Walter Payton
There has never been – nor will there ever be – another Walter Payton. The aptly named “Sweetness” was, in my mind, the best running back to ever lace up a pair of cleats in NFL history.

Not only did Payton retire as the league’s all-time leading rusher, but he accomplished the feat by being a model of consistency that has only been matched by one other runner in NFL history.

The fourth player chosen in the 1975 NFL draft, the 5-10 Payton retired with 16,726 total yards and 10 seasons with 1,000 or more rushing yards, 275 yards rushing in one game against Minnesota in 1977, 77 games with more than 100 yards rushing, and 110 rushing touchdowns. He also scored an extraordinary 750 points on 125 touchdowns – in an era when offenses weren’t nearly as potent – or liberal.