Ranking the top 25 running backs in NFL history…
Drafted first overall by the Buffalo Bills in 1969 out of USC, Simpson overcame a slow start plagued by injuries and a weak offensive line to become one of the NFL’s premier rushers.
Over nine seasons with the Bills, he led the league in rushing four times (1972, 1973, 1975, 1976), culminating in a historic 1973 campaign where he became the first player to rush for over 2,000 yards (2,003 in 14 games), earning [MVP](https://web.archive.org/web/20130305002308/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/award_apmvp.htm) and Offensive Player of the Year.
Simpson’s explosive seasons included 1,817 yards in 1975 and six Pro Bowl nods, helping transform Buffalo into a playoff contender in the mid-1970s.
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Traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 1978, he added two more seasons, rushing for 1,053 yards combined before retiring.
Simpson’s career totals stand at 2,404 rushes for 11,236 yards (4.7 average) and 61 rushing touchdowns, plus 203 receptions for 2,142 yards and 14 scores, totaling 76 touchdowns and 14,368 all-purpose yards in 135 games.
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Upon retirement, he ranked second all-time in rushing yards and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1985, also earning NFL 1970s All-Decade Team honors.
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Simpson’s standout attributes were his elite speed (4.3 40-yard dash) and acceleration, allowing him to burst through holes and outrun defenders for long gains. At 6-foot-1 and 212 pounds, he possessed rare agility for his size. He was slashing speedster: elusive, with quick cuts and vision to exploit creases, often turning routine plays into big-yardage explosions.
Though criticized for fumbling issues and playing on losing teams, O. J.’s performances at his peak revolutionized the position.
Featured image via Tony Tomsic/USA TODAY NETWORK