Washington Commandeers Top 5 Running Backs of All Time

(last updated on January 3, 2026)

The Washington Commanders, a storied franchise with a rich history dating back to 1937, have seen countless talented players don their uniforms. Among these athletes, the running backs have often been the driving force behind the team’s success. Their ability to pound the ball between the tackles, break off explosive runs, and contribute to the passing game has left countless stories and accolades for the franchise.

As we explore the best running back legends, we will examine the careers of the top five rushers in the Washington Commanders’ history. These players have not only showcased their exceptional athleticism but have also become beloved figures among fans. From the franchise’s early days to the modern era, these top running backs have captivated audiences with their performances on the field.

This post will examine each standout player’s accomplishments, impact, and legacy. Their contributions helped shape the Washington Commanders’ identity and cemented their place among the greatest running backs in team history.

The following regular-season criteria will be examined to select the quintet of the franchise’s greatest running backs: rushing yards, overall touchdowns, receptions, and awards while with the team. Secondly, if applicable, we will look at playoff numbers with the club, what stats they may have had in the league while not a member of the subject franchise, and any other circumstances or events warranting consideration.

Washington’s Fab Five Running Backs

Larry Brown’s eight-year tenure with the Washington Redskins solidified his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in franchise history.

Selected in the eighth round of the 1969 NFL Draft, Brown quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the team’s offense. His power, speed, and versatility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.  

Brown’s most impressive seasons came under the guidance of legendary coach George Allen. In 1970, he led the NFL in rushing yards. Then in 1972 he was the NFL MVP and the Offensive Player of the Year. His performance propelled the Redskins to the Super Bowl, where they ultimately fell short against the Miami Dolphins.

His NFL career in the nation’s capital ended with impressive stats like 35 rushing TDs for the Redskins, 5,875 yards rushing, 2,485 receiving yards, 20 touchdown catches, and the franchise’s all-time RB leader in receptions with 238.

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Stephen Davis, a powerful running back, left an indelible mark on the Washington Redskins. Drafted in 1996, Davis quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His combination of speed, strength, and vision made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Stephen was a quick-footed, square-shouldered player who was a good fit for the Washington offense. He was known for his deceptive speed and brute force.

Davis’s most memorable season came in 1999 when he rushed for 1,405 yards and an NFL-leading 17 rushing touchdowns. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl appearance and solidified his status as one of the league’s top running backs. Throughout his tenure in Washington, Davis consistently delivered big plays and helped the team achieve success.

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John Riggins was a cornerstone of the Washington Redskins from 1976 to 1985, as he cemented his name into NFL history with his powerful running style and gritty determination. Riggins makes this list not only with his 85 total touchdowns (79 rushing TDs with Washington) (104 total for his NFL career) and 7,472 rushing yards with the Redskins … but with some iconic NFL moments as well.

During the 1982 season, Riggins truly cemented his legacy. In Super Bowl XVII against the Miami Dolphins, the Diesel delivered one of the most iconic performances in NFL history. Toting the leather 38 times for 166 yards and a touchdown, Riggins powered the Redskins to a victory as he ran over multiple Miami defenders. His “Riggo Run,” a 43-yard touchdown scamper through the Dolphins’ defense, became a defining moment in Super Bowl lore.

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Drafted in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft by Denver, Portis quickly established himself as a force in the league. His combination of speed, power, and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

During his tenure in Washington, Portis consistently delivered standout performances. He amassed stellar stats in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns, earning numerous accolades along the way, such as 6,824 rushing yards with the Redskins (second in team history). His ability to break tackles and find the end zone made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Clinton also made football fun on the field and in his press conference appearances with wild outfits that hyped the games his team would play a day or two later.

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Alfred Morris, a former standout running back for Washington, had a brief but impactful stint in the franchise’s history during his tenure from 2012 to 2015. Alfred wasn’t taken until the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, but he defied expectations with his impressive rookie season.

Morris was near the top in NFL rushing yards and touchdowns in a couple of seasons, earning himself two Pro Bowl appearances. A punishing running style and the ability to break tackles made him a fan favorite. He consistently contributed to the team’s offense, providing a reliable ground game and helping to alleviate pressure on the quarterback.

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Bonus Picks for Washington Backs

The collection of running backs in the annals of Washington football is lengthy, so narrowing it down to a handful was difficult. With such a selection to choose from, I think there are two more backfield standouts in Redskins/Commanders lore that need to get some recognition.

Charley Taylor, a versatile offensive weapon, spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Washington Redskins. His versatility and skill sets are the main reasons why he did not make the top five Washington backs mentioned above, as his stats are somewhat skewed.

Drafted in the first round in 1964, Taylor quickly established himself as a dual threat, topping the charts as both a running back and wide receiver. His dynamic playmaking ability helped transform the Redskins into a perennial playoff contender in the early 1970s.  

Taylor’s career highlights include leading the NFL in receptions twice, earning eight Pro Bowl selections, and the honor of making the All-Decade Team of the 1960s. His contributions were instrumental in the Redskins’ Super Bowl VII appearance. Taylor’s exceptional talent and dedication earned him a bronze bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in franchise history. Mr. Taylor finished his career with 9,110 receiving yards and 79 TD catches.

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Another Hall of Fame Redskins running back deserves mention in this study of the great franchise runners, Cliff Battles. Though he played the majority of his time in the city of Boston before the franchise moved to Washington, this Redskin rusher was a problem for defenses.

Known for his exceptional speed and agility, Battles led the league in rushing yards twice during his tenure. His contributions were instrumental in the Redskins’ 1937 NFL Championship victory. Despite his immense talent, Battles’ career was cut short due to a contract dispute with the team’s owner. Nevertheless, his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history remains firmly cemented.

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Conclusion

The well is deep, as you can see, with talented ball carriers for the Washington NFL club. From modern-era athletes who dazzled crowds with electric moves and speed to powerful work-horse ball luggers who pounded defenders into submission, the franchise has had its fair share of rushing standouts that go down as some of the NFL’s finest.

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This entry was posted on Sunday, September 15th, 2024 at 11:19 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.