The NFL has seen legendary running backs who dominated with speed, power, and skill. These players set records, won championships, and changed the game. From explosive playmakers to relentless workhorses.

Here’s a look at Top 10 Best Running Backs in NFL History:

10. Frank Gore

Frank Gore was the definition of durability and longevity. Playing 16 seasons, he rushed for 16,075 yards, ranking third all-time among the Best Running Backs in NFL History. Despite never winning an MVP or a Super Bowl, his nine 1,000-yard seasons and five Pro Bowl appearances prove his consistency. Gore’s ability to produce at a high level for such a long time makes him one of the greatest Best Running Backs in NFL History.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
49ers, Others	16,075	81

9. Curtis Martin

Curtis Martin was one of the most reliable running backs ever. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in 10 straight seasons and won the rushing title in 2004 at age 31. With 14,101 rushing yards and 90 touchdowns, Martin was a five-time Pro Bowler and a model of consistency. As one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History, his work ethic and durability made him one of the most respected backs in the league.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Patriots, Jets	14,101	90

8. Eric Dickerson

Eric Dickerson was one of the most dominant rushers, holding the single-season rushing record with 2,104 yards in 1984. A six-time Pro Bowler and four-time rushing champion, he finished his career with 13,259 rushing yards and 90 touchdowns. Dickerson’s speed, power, and upright running style made him unstoppable, and he is widely regarded as one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Rams, Colts, Others	13,259	90

7. Marshall Faulk

Marshall Faulk was the best dual-threat running back in history. A key part of the Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf,” he won MVP in 2000 with 1,359 rushing yards and 830 receiving yards. Faulk retired with 12,279 rushing yards, 100 touchdowns, and over 6,000 receiving yards. As one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History, his ability to dominate in both rushing and receiving made him one of the most complete backs in the league.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Colts, Rams	12,279	100

6. LaDainian Tomlinson

LaDainian Tomlinson was a touchdown machine, setting the single-season record with 28 rushing TDs in 2006, the year he won MVP. Finishing his career with 13,684 rushing yards and 145 rushing touchdowns, he was also an elite pass-catcher. As one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History, Tomlinson’s ability to dominate both phases of the game made him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons of his era.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Chargers, Jets	13,684	145

ALSO SEE: Top 10 Oldest Football Clubs of World

5. Jim Brown

Jim Brown was the most dominant back of his time, leading the league in rushing eight times in just nine seasons. He won three MVPs and finished his career with 12,312 rushing yards and 106 touchdowns. His combination of size, speed, and power changed the game, and despite retiring at 30, he remains one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Browns	12,312	106

4. Barry Sanders

Barry Sanders was one of the most elusive and exciting players in NFL history. He rushed for 15,269 yards in just 10 seasons and won the 1997 MVP with a 2,053-yard season. A 10-time Pro Bowler, Sanders led the league in rushing four times. As one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History, his unexpected retirement left fans wondering what more he could have achieved, but his impact on the game remains unmatched.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Lions	15,269	99

3. Adrian Peterson

Adrian Peterson was a dominant force in the 2000s, winning the 2012 MVP after rushing for 2,097 yards—just eight yards short of the single-season record. A seven-time Pro Bowler, he finished his career with 14,918 rushing yards and 120 touchdowns. Peterson’s rare combination of speed, strength, and vision made him one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Vikings, Saints, Others	14,918	120

2. Walter Payton

Walter Payton was one of the toughest and most versatile running backs ever. Playing 13 seasons with the Bears, he set a then-record with 16,726 rushing yards. His 1977 MVP season saw him rush for 1,852 yards and 14 touchdowns. As one of the Best Running Backs in NFL History, Payton was also a great receiver and blocker, making him a complete back. His Super Bowl win in 1985 sealed his legacy as an all-time great.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Bears	16,726	110

1. Emmitt Smith

Emmitt Smith was the foundation of the Cowboys’ 1990s dynasty. Winning three Super Bowls, an MVP in 1993, and finishing as the all-time rushing leader with 18,355 yards and 164 touchdowns, he was the definition of consistency and durability. As the Best Running Back in NFL History, Smith led the league in rushing four times and delivered in the biggest moments, making him the greatest running back of all time.

Team	Rushing Yards	Touchdowns
Cowboys, Cardinals	18,355	164

SEE MORE:

Top 10 Greatest Baseball Players of All Time