# Who is the greatest NFL running back of all time?

> From Jim Brown's dominance in the 1960s to Derrick Henry's freight-train runs, NFL running backs have provided some of football's most thrilling moments. Who is the all-time greatest?

*By YPB Team · Published April 25, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/who-is-the-greatest-nfl-running-back-of-all-time*

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## Current results (0 votes)

1. **Jim Brown**
   The consensus GOAT with a 5.2 yards-per-carry average across 9 seasons, 8 rushing titles, and 3 MVP awards for the Cleveland Browns.
2. **Walter Payton**
   'Sweetness' combined power, agility, and durability across 13 seasons, earning the 1977 MVP and the humanitarian award named in his honor.
3. **Barry Sanders**
   10-time Pro Bowler who posted 2,053 yards in his 1997 MVP season and retired early with some of the most elusive running in NFL history.
4. **LaDainian Tomlinson**
   Set the single-season record with 28 rushing touchdowns in his 2006 MVP season, combining elite production with rare versatility.
5. **Eric Dickerson**
   Holder of the single-season rushing record with 2,105 yards in 1984, combining a unique upright running style with blazing speed.
6. **Adrian Peterson**
   2012 MVP who rushed for 2,097 yards after reconstructive knee surgery, showcasing superhuman power and determination.
7. **Marshall Faulk**
   The ultimate dual-threat back who won three consecutive Offensive Player of the Year awards with the St. Louis Rams dynasty.
8. **Gale Sayers**
   A five-time First-Team All-Pro in just five healthy seasons, widely considered the most naturally gifted runner in NFL history.
9. **Tony Dorsett**
   1977 Rookie of the Year and Super Bowl champion who holds the record for the longest run in NFL history — 99 yards.
10. **Franco Harris**
   Nine-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champion whose 'Immaculate Reception' is the most famous play in NFL history.
11. **Thurman Thomas**
   1991 MVP and four-time AFC Championship winner with the Buffalo Bills who led the league in total yards from scrimmage for four consecutive seasons.
12. **Marshawn Lynch**
   'Beast Mode' became a cultural icon for his physical, punishing style and legendary runs during the Seattle Seahawks dynasty.
13. **Derrick Henry**
   One of only eight players in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season, combining freight-train power with breakaway speed.

Tags: sports, football, nfl, legends, all-time