Philadelphia Eagles Top 5 Running Backs of All Time

From the gridiron greats of the past to the modern-day stars, the Philadelphia Eagles have been home to some of the most iconic running backs in NFL history. Let’s dive into the careers of the top five running backs who have left their mark on the City of Brotherly Love fans and the franchise’s legacy.

As we trek on this captivating journey through time, we will delve into the careers of the top five running backs in the Philadelphia Eagles’ 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 running backs have captivated audiences with their performances on the field.

This post will delve into each standout player’s accomplishments, impact, and legacy. Their significant contributions helped shape the Eagles’ identity and cemented their place among the greatest running backs in NFL history, a legacy that every Philly fan can be proud of.

We will examine the regular season criteria to select the quintet of the franchise’s best ball toters: 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 that warrant consideration. This comprehensive evaluation process ensures that the rankings are well-informed and reliable.

The Best Five Backs in Eagles History

The Philadelphia Eagles have a storied history filled with electrifying playmakers, but few have left as lasting an impact as the franchise’s legendary running backs. From explosive speed and elusive moves to power and relentless determination, these players have defined eras and carried the team to greatness. Over the decades, the Eagles have been home to some of the most dynamic and productive rushers in NFL history, each leaving their unique mark on the game. Let’s look at the top five running backs who have solidified their legacy in Philadelphia’s football lore.

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Duce Staley was a beloved running back for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1997 to 2003.

Known for his toughness and explosive runs, Staley quickly became a fan favorite. He was pivotal to the Eagles’ success during that era, helping them reach the playoffs multiple times. Staley’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His impact on the Eagles franchise extends beyond his playing days, as he is now an NFL assistant coach.

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Wilbert Montgomery is among the most iconic running backs in Philadelphia Eagles history. Drafted in the sixth round in 1977, Montgomery quickly became a cornerstone of the Eagles’ offense with his combination of speed, toughness, and versatility. Over eight seasons with the team, he rushed for 6,538 yards, a franchise record that stood for decades, and scored 45 touchdowns on the ground. Montgomery was also a reliable receiver, contributing over 2,500 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His defining moment came in the 1980 NFC Championship Game, where he powered the Eagles to victory with 194 rushing yards, securing their first Super Bowl appearance. A two-time Pro Bowler, Montgomery’s impact on Eagles history remains a high watermark.

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Steve Van Buren, a Honduran-American halfback, was a dominant force for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1944 to 1951.

He led the NFL in rushing for three seasons, including a remarkable “triple crown” year in 1945, where he topped the League in rushing, scoring, and kickoff returns. Van Buren’s powerful running style and exceptional vision made him a feared offensive weapon. He was pivotal to the Eagles’ success during their championship era, helping them win two NFL titles. His impact on the franchise is still felt today, as he remains the Eagles’ all-time leader in rushing touchdowns and a bronze bust in Canton.

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Brian Westbrook is among the most dynamic and versatile running backs in Philadelphia Eagles history. Known for his exceptional agility, vision, and receiving ability, Westbrook spent nine seasons with the Eagles, amassing over 9,000 total yards and 69 touchdowns. A key player in the team’s offensive success, he earned two Pro Bowl selections and was instrumental in the Eagles’ 2004 Super Bowl run. Westbrook’s impact as a runner and a pass catcher solidified his place in franchise lore.

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LeSean McCoy, nicknamed “Shady,” made a significant impact during his six seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. Drafted in 2009, he quickly became a dynamic playmaker known for his elusive running style and ability to make defenders miss. McCoy set franchise records for rushing yards and touchdowns, earning three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors. He included a 1,607-yard rushing campaign in his standout season in 2013, where he shattered the team’s single-season rushing record. McCoy’s contributions were instrumental in the Eagles’ offensive success during his tenure, solidifying his place as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

Other Eagle’s Running Backs That Flew High

While the top five running backs in Philadelphia Eagles history have earned their place in the spotlight, the franchise’s legacy of excellence in the backfield extends far beyond those select few. Over the years, many other talented runners have donned the green and white, leaving their unique marks on the team and its fans. Whether through their versatility, grit, or flashes of brilliance in critical moments, these players contributed to the Eagles’ storied history and helped define the team’s identity. In this chapter, we’ll look at some standout backs who may not have cracked the top five but still deserve recognition for their impact on Eagles football.

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Timmy Brown was a standout running back for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1960 to 1964. Known for his speed and versatility, he rushed for over 3,000 yards and scored 38 touchdowns. Brown was also a dangerous return specialist and played a key role in the Eagles’ 1960 NFL Championship win.

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Ricky Watters played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1995 to 1997.

He was a dynamic running back who rushed for over 1,000 yards in his three seasons with the team. Watters also excelled as a receiver, catching over 50 passes per season. Despite his impressive stats, he is perhaps best remembered for his infamous “For who? For what?” quote after a lackluster performance in his first game with the Eagles.

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Keith Byars, a versatile and talented player, was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round of the 1986 NFL Draft.

During his time with the Eagles, he showcased his running back, fullback, and tight end skills. While injuries marked his career, Byars contributed significantly to the team’s offense, particularly in the late 1980s. He was known for his ability to catch passes out of the backfield and his powerful running style.  

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Sanders played for the Eagles from 2019 to 2022, amassing over 3,700 yards and 23 touchdowns. He was a dynamic and explosive rusher who helped lead the team to a Super Bowl appearance during the 2022 season.

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Herschel Walker’s time with the Eagles was brief but memorable. Acquired in 1992, his explosive running and unique athleticism added depth to the backfield. Though his peak came elsewhere, Walker’s short stint in Philly showcased his enduring skill.

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Tom Woodeshick was a key running back for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1963 to 1971.

He was a reliable ball carrier known for his toughness and consistency. Woodeshick’s best season came in 1968 when he rushed for 947 yards and was selected to the Pro Bowl. He remains a significant figure in Eagles history, contributing to the team’s success during his tenure.

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Conclusion

The legacy of great running backs in Philadelphia Eagles history goes far beyond just the top five. Countless others have contributed to the team’s success on the ground, from bruising fullbacks who paved the way for their teammates to versatile backs who could make plays in both the run and pass game. Each era of Eagles football has been defined, in part, by the strength of its ground attack, with players embodying the toughness and resilience the city demands. While the spotlight often shines brightest on a select few, every player who’s carried the ball for the Eagles has shaped the franchise’s identity. Together, they represent a proud tradition of excellence in the backfield that continues to evolve with each new generation of talent.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024 at 12:47 pm and is filed under Top Lists. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.