The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, have seen their fair share of legendary running backs grace the gridiron wearing the iconic star on their helmets.
From the early days of the franchise to the modern era, Cowboys fans have been treated to some of the most electrifying performances from running backs who have etched their names into the annals of football history.
Here, we take a nostalgic journey through time to celebrate the top five running backs in Dallas Cowboys history.
5. Ezekiel Elliott
Rounding out our list is Ezekiel Elliott, a modern-day star who has made a significant impact on the Cowboys franchise.
Drafted fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, Elliott wasted no time proving himself as one of the top running backs in the league. He led the NFL in rushing yards during his rookie season and continued to be a focal point of the Cowboys’ offense for years. As of today, he’s back with the Cowboys and ready to continue making an impact for the franchise.
Elliott’s blend of power, speed, and elusiveness has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he looks poised to continue adding to his already impressive legacy in Dallas for years to come.
4. Herschel Walker
Herschel Walker’s time with the Cowboys may have been relatively short compared to some of the other players on this list, but his impact was undeniable.
Acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Minnesota Vikings in 1989, Walker brought a new level of excitement to the Cowboys’ offense. His rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he played a crucial role in helping the Cowboys return to prominence in the early 1990s.
While his tenure in Dallas may have been brief, Walker’s impact on the franchise cannot be overstated.
3. Don Perkins
Don Perkins may not be as well-known as some of the other names on this list, but his impact on the Dallas Cowboys franchise cannot be overstated.
Perkins was the Cowboys’ first true star running back, earning Pro Bowl honors in each of his first six seasons in the NFL. He was a key player during the early years of the Cowboys’ existence and helped establish the team as a legitimate contender in the league.
Perkins’ hard-nosed running style and consistency made him a fan favorite in Dallas, and he remains one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
2. Tony Dorsett
Tony Dorsett’s electrifying speed and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Drafted by the Cowboys in 1977, Dorsett wasted no time making his mark in the NFL. He was named Offensive Rookie of the Year and went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Cowboys. Dorsett played a crucial role in the Cowboys’ Super Bowl XII victory and was a four-time Pro Bowl selection during his time in Dallas.
His ability to break big plays and change the course of a game with his explosive running style cements his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in Cowboys history.
1. Emmitt Smith
No list of the greatest Dallas Cowboys running backs would be complete without the legendary Emmitt Smith.
Arguably one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, Smith’s career with the Cowboys is nothing short of legendary. He holds numerous NFL records, including most career rushing yards and most career rushing touchdowns. Smith was the heart and soul of the Cowboys’ offense during the 1990s, leading them to three Super Bowl championships and earning Super Bowl MVP honors in Super Bowl XXVIII.
His combination of vision, power, and durability made him a force to be reckoned with on the field, and his legacy as a Cowboy will forever be remembered.
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