Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts Top 5 Running Backs of All Time

(last updated on February 22, 2026)

The Colts’ history is a rich tapestry that stretches back to the 1950s. The franchise, now based in Indiana, had its humble beginnings in Baltimore, Maryland in 1953. Over the past 70+ football seasons, the Blue Horseshoe has seen a parade of outstanding runners grace its backfield.

Join us to examine the best running backs’ accomplishments, impact, and legacy in the Colts franchise’s history. This journey will remind us of their significant contributions in shaping the team’s identity and solidifying their place among the greatest running backs for the franchise.

To select the quintet of the franchise’s greatest running backs, the following regular-season criteria will be examined: 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.

The Best Running Backs in Colts History

The Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts have provided thrills for fans for over seven decades, and a big part of the team’s success is the production and identity of their running game. Spanning the franchise’s existence, we present the running backs deemed the cream of the crop in Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts history.

Dickerson, one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history, significantly impacted the Indianapolis Colts after being traded from the Los Angeles Rams in 1987. The blockbuster mid-season trade, involving three teams, brought Dickerson to the Colts, instantly transforming their offense. In his first season with Indianapolis, he rushed for 1,011 yards in just nine games, helping the team secure a playoff berth for the first time in nearly a decade. His presence revitalized the franchise, giving the Colts a superstar offensive weapon.

During his time in Indianapolis, Dickerson continued to showcase his elite rushing ability. In 1988, he led the NFL in rushing with 1,659 yards, earning Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors. He was also named the AFC Offensive Player of the Year. Over his Colts career, Dickerson surpassed 1,000 rushing yards three times, cementing his status as one of the league’s best backs. Though his tenure ended amid injuries and contract disputes, his contributions helped redefine the Colts’ offense and left a lasting legacy.

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Marshall Faulk’s arrival in Indianapolis immediately transformed the Colt’s offense and ignited excitement among fans. Drafted second overall in 1994, Faulk’s electrifying running style and versatility as a receiver made him a threat to score every time he touched the ball. His impact was immediate, earning him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 1994 and the Pro Bowl MVP.  

Faulk’s ability to excel as a runner and receiver revolutionized the running back position. He consistently ranked among the league leaders in rushing and receiving yards, becoming the first Colt to rush for over 1,000 yards in his rookie season. His presence helped elevate the Colts into playoff contention, and he became a beloved figure in Indianapolis.  

While with the Colts, Faulk earned three Pro Bowl selections (1994, 1995, & 1998) and was named to the All-Pro Second Team three times (1994, 1995, & 1998).

Though his time in Indianapolis was shorter than some fans would have liked, Faulk left an indelible mark on the Colts franchise. He set numerous rookie records and established himself as one of the most dynamic players in the team’s history. His contributions paved the way for future Colts’ offensive stars and cemented his legacy as a Hall of Fame player.  

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Edgerrin James was a transformative player for the Indianapolis Colts, establishing himself as one of the franchise’s all-time greats. Drafted fourth overall in 1999, James made an immediate impact, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year and leading the NFL in rushing yards in his first two seasons. His dynamic running ability and pass-catching skills perfectly complemented Peyton Manning, helping shape the Colts’ high-powered offense.

During his seven seasons in Indianapolis, James earned four Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro in 1999. He became the Colts’ all-time leading rusher, amassing 9,226 rushing yards and 64 rushing touchdowns. His contributions helped lay the foundation for the team’s eventual Super Bowl XLI victory, even though he had departed by then. James’ legacy was cemented with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, solidifying his place as a Colts legend.

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Taylor’s impact on the Indianapolis Colts was immediate and significant. His explosive running style and ability to break tackles revitalized the Colts’ offense, providing a consistent ground game and alleviating pressure on the passing attack. Taylor quickly became a focal point, leading the league in rushing in 2021 and finishing second for NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He also garnered Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections that season, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier running backs and a cornerstone of the Colts’ offense. After a couple of down years, this RB churned out 1,431 rushing yards in 2024 and 1,585 ground yards in 2025.

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Mitchell was a dynamic running back for the Baltimore Colts from 1972 to 1977, significantly impacting the team’s offense. Mitchell, a powerful yet agile rusher, recorded three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons from 1975 to 1977, establishing himself as one of the league’s top backs. His versatility as a pass catcher made him a dual threat. Mitchell earned three Pro Bowl selections (1975–1977) and was named a Second-Team All-Pro twice. His contributions helped the Colts remain competitive in a demanding AFC.

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Honorable Mention Colts Backs

In over 70 seasons, the franchise has not only counted on the fab five previously mentioned to carry the rock. Many others have also contributed, and a few deserve special recognition as the organization’s next tier of great running backs.

Tom Matte was a versatile running back for the Baltimore Colts from 1961 to 1972. Known for his adaptability, he famously played quarterback during the 1965 playoffs due to injuries. Matte earned Pro Bowl selections in 1968 and 1969 and helped the Colts win Super Bowl V.

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Addai’s bruising running style and reliable performance were crucial to the Indianapolis Colts’ success in the mid-2000s. He balanced their potent passing attack, contributing significantly to their Super Bowl XLI victory. Addai earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2007 and rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2006 and 2007, solidifying his role as a key component of the Colts’ offense.

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Alan Ameche made a lasting impact on the Baltimore Colts as a powerful fullback from 1955 to 1960. He won the NFL Rookie of the Year award in 1955 and was a four-time Pro Bowler. Ameche’s most iconic moment came in the 1958 NFL Championship Game, where he scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime, securing the Colts’ victory in “The Greatest Game Ever Played.” His contributions helped shape the team’s early success and NFL history.

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Lenny Moore revolutionized the running back position for the Baltimore Colts, becoming a dual-threat weapon (11,213 career scrimmage yards). His explosive speed and versatility as a runner and receiver made him a defensive nightmare. Moore was a key component of the Colts’ championship teams, contributing significantly to their offensive firepower. During his time in Baltimore, he earned seven Pro Bowl selections and was named the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year in 1964.

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Conclusion

There you have it … some of the top backs in NFL history have notably carved their careers, at least partly, with the Colts franchise. Their legendary performances and trademark moves are forever connected to the Blue Horseshoe.

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This entry was posted on Friday, April 18th, 2025 at 3:24 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.