Cleveland Browns Top 5 Running Backs of All Time

(last updated on February 3, 2026)

From the past gridiron greats in the All-America Football Conference to the modern-day NFL stars, the Cleveland Browns have been home to some of the most iconic running backs in football history. Let’s dive into the careers of the top five running backs who have left their mark on the shores of Lake Erie 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 Cleveland Browns’ 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 Browns’ identity and cemented their place among the greatest running backs in NFL history, a legacy that every Cleveland 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 warranting consideration. This comprehensive evaluation process ensures that the rankings are well-informed and reliable.

Top 5 Browns Running Backs

The Cleveland Browns have a storied history defined by dominant running games and legendary players who revolutionized the position. From the team’s early years to the modern era, the Browns’ backfield has been home to some of the most dynamic and influential talents in NFL history. These players racked up impressive stats and left lasting legacies with their game-changing performances, leadership, and consistency. Whether powering through defenders or breaking away for long runs, these running backs have been the cornerstone of the franchise’s success. This section highlights the top five running backs in Browns’ history, celebrating their contributions and the indelible mark they left on the game.

Since this back out of Georgia burst onto the NFL scene in 2018, Nick Chubb has been a force for defenses to worry about. A devastating leg injury in 2023 set him back, but Nick returned and added to his stats.

Chubb emerged as one of the most dominant running backs in the NFL from 2018 to 2022 with his powerful running style and exceptional vision consistently delivering impressive performances. He has frequently rushed for over 1,000 yards per season and was a key contributor to the Browns’ offensive. Chubb’s ability to break tackles, gain tough yards, and score touchdowns made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses. In 2025, this grinder put up solid numbers for the Houston Texans.

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During his nine seasons with the team, Mike Pruitt was a key figure in the Cleveland Browns’ backfield (1976-1984). Drafted in the first round out of Purdue, Pruitt brought a combination of power and agility that made him a consistent offensive threat. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in four seasons, including a career-high 1,294 yards in 1980, helping the Browns secure a playoff berth.

Pruitt was a two-time Pro Bowl selection (1979 and 1980) and complemented his rushing ability with substantial contributions as a receiver out of the backfield. He amassed 6,540 rushing yards before leaving the Browns, ranking among the franchise’s all-time leaders. Pruitt’s toughness and reliability cemented his place in Browns history as one of their great running backs.

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Jim Brown is still the standard that all running backs in the NFL are compared. The mighty man with grace from Syracuse was an athletic phenom.

Brown’s nine-year career with the Cleveland Browns was legendary. Drafted first overall in 1957, he quickly established himself as the most dominant running back in NFL history. Brown led the league in rushing eight times and held the all-time record with 12,312 rushing yards until 1984. You can add eight First-Team All-Pro selections and three MVPs to his biography. His combination of power, speed, and agility was unmatched, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Beyond his incredible athleticism, Brown was a fierce competitor and a true leader that helped Cleveland to its last NFL championship in 1964.

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Leroy Kelly was a dynamic running back who carried on the Cleveland Browns’ tradition of excellence after the legendary Jim Brown’s retirement. Playing for the Browns from 1964 to 1973, Kelly became a cornerstone of the offense, earning six Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. Known for his elusiveness and breakaway speed, he led the NFL in rushing yards in 1967 and 1968, helping the Browns remain contenders. Kelly finished his career with 7,274 rushing yards and 87 total touchdowns, ranking among the franchise’s all-time leaders. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994.

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Marion Motley was not the flashiest back in Browns’ history, nor did he have the statistical firepower of some of his fellow Cleveland backs; however, what this big man accomplished over a career of trailblazing and championships is astonishing enough to place him on this list of five.

As one of the first African-American players in the league, Motley faced significant discrimination but persevered to become a star for the Cleveland Browns. Known for his powerful running style and exceptional blocking, Motley was a key contributor to the Browns’ success in the 1940s and 1950s. Twice he led the league in rushing (964 yards in ’48 and 810 yards in ’50). He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968 after a great career with four AAFC titles and an NFL championship.

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Other Top Cleveland Running Backs

While the Cleveland Browns’ top five running backs represent the pinnacle of greatness, the franchise has been blessed with a wealth of talent. Many exceptional players missed the cut, significantly impacting the team’s history. These running backs brought toughness, versatility, and memorable performances that endeared them to fans and solidified their place in Browns lore. Whether they played key roles in playoff runs, delivered clutch moments, or provided consistency during transitional periods, their contributions cannot be overlooked. This section celebrates those who didn’t make the top five but still deserve recognition as vital pieces of the Browns’ storied legacy in the backfield.

Greg was the lightning to the often fielded tandem of the Browns’ “All Pruitt” backfield of the late 1970s, along with Mike above (no relation). G. Pruitt rushed for almost 5,500 yards for the Cleveland offense, including weapons like Ozzie Newsome, Brian Sipe, and the men named Pruitt.

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Kevin Mack was key to the Cleveland Browns’ resurgence in the 1980s. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles made him a fan favorite. Mack was a reliable ball carrier and a key contributor to the team’s success during that era. In 1985, this bruiser topped 1,100 yards on the ground and was the runner-up for the Offensive Rookie of the Year.

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Ernie Green was a reliable and versatile running back for the Cleveland Browns from 1962 to 1968. As a key complement to Jim Brown, Green excelled as a runner, receiver, and returner, totaling 6,035 all-purpose yards in his career. A two-time Pro Bowler, he contributed to Cleveland’s 1964 championship.

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Earnest Byner was another key figure in the Cleveland Browns’ resurgence in the 1980s. He formed a dynamic duo with Kevin Mack, becoming the third pair of running backs in NFL history to each rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. Byner’s versatility as a runner, receiver, and blocker made him a valuable asset to the team. Though often remembered for a pivotal fumble in the 1987 AFC Championship Game, Byner’s contributions to the Browns’ success during that era are undeniable.

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Isaiah Crowell played for the Cleveland Browns from 2014 to 2017, showcasing consistency and durability in the backfield. Crowell, an undrafted free agent, totaled 3,118 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns during his four seasons. His best year came in 2016, with 952 rushing yards, making him a bright spot in challenging seasons.

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Conclusion

The Cleveland Browns’ history is rich with remarkable running backs who have defined the team’s identity and carried its legacy on their shoulders. From the all-time greats who redefined the position to the underrated stars who provided unforgettable moments, the Browns’ backfield has been a cornerstone of the franchise’s success. These players embody the grit, determination, and passion that Cleveland fans hold dear. While eras change and new stars emerge, the tradition of exceptional running backs remains a constant in Browns’ history. As the team moves forward, the foundation built by these legendary players continues to inspire future generations, reminding us of the enduring impact a great running back can have on the game and the city.

Thanks for joining us in our mission to flip through history and admire the top running backs of each of the 32 current NFL franchises. Check Pro-Football-Reference to see the next team up!

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This entry was posted on Friday, February 21st, 2025 at 3:45 pm and is filed under NFL History. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.