Playing running back in the NFL might be the most physically demanding job in professional sports. The job is so difficult and requires so much skill and conditioning that the men who play the position don’t normally last long. It’s not uncommon for NFL running backs to completely retire from the game after less than 10 seasons because of the toll it takes on their bodies.
We’ve rounded up the running backs who are (or were) better than any others in NFL history through the 2020 season, and our list includes several people who had short but brilliant careers. Cutting the list down was difficult and resulted in some great backs getting the ax, including current stars like Derrick Henry and Ezekiel Elliott, who may find themselves on the list with a little more time.
Take a look at our list and see if your favorite running back made the cut.
Updated 12/15/20
