Ranking the top 25 running backs in NFL history…
13. Marcus Allen
Drafted in the first round (10th overall) by the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982 out of the University of Southern California, where he won the Heisman Trophy, Allen redefined versatility for running backs in the NFL.
Over 11 seasons with the Raiders, Allen starred in their run-heavy offense, leading them to a Super Bowl XVIII victory in 1983 with 191 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a memorable 74-yard run, earning MVP honors.
He earned six Pro Bowl selections, two first-team All-Pro nods and was named NFL MVP in 1985 after rushing for 1,759 yards and 11 touchdowns. Allen became the first player to surpass 10,000 rushing yards and 5,000 receiving yards in a career. His standout 1993 season with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he spent his final five years, saw him rush for 764 yards and 12 touchdowns at age 33.
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Allen retired after the 1997 season, having played 16 years total.
Allen’s career totals include 12,243 rushing yards on 3,022 carries (4.1 yards per carry), 123 rushing touchdowns, 587 receptions for 5,411 yards and 21 receiving touchdowns, amassing 17,654 all-purpose yards and 145 total scores—a then-record.
Allen’s standout attributes were his elite vision, balance and receiving skills, making him a threat in multiple facets while maintaining durability over a long career. He was a patient, slashing runner: explosive through holes, adept at cutbacks and smooth as a pass-catcher with soft hands and route precision.
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Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003, Allen’s legacy as the only player to win a Heisman, Super Bowl, Super Bowl MVP and NFL MVP endures.
But who ranks ahead of Allen at No. 12 all-time?
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