{"id":711,"date":"2024-09-27T14:59:51","date_gmt":"2024-09-27T18:59:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/?p=711"},"modified":"2026-01-03T14:54:46","modified_gmt":"2026-01-03T18:54:46","slug":"tampa-bay-buccaneers-top-5-running-backs-of-all-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/2024\/09\/tampa-bay-buccaneers-top-5-running-backs-of-all-time\/","title":{"rendered":"Tampa Bay Buccaneers Top 5 Running Backs of All Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

(last updated on January 3, 2026)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been an NFL franchise for almost a half century<\/a>, and in that time the players who have appeared on the Bucs roster have been substantial. The corps of running backs lined up for the team has consisted of bruisers, bangers, and speed demons who have all wreaked havoc on opposing defenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next on this journey through the careers of the best running back legends, we will explore the impact of the top five rushers in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ history. With their exceptional athleticism, these players have captivated audiences and left us in awe, becoming beloved figures among fans and inspiring respect and admiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This post will examine each standout player\u2019s accomplishments, impact, and legacy. Their contributions helped shape the Bucs\u2019 identity and cemented their place among the greatest running backs in team history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The following regular-season criteria will be examined to select the quintet of the franchise\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Best Running Backs in Buccaneers History<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To be successful as a rushing team, you need a stable of backs who can carry the load. Here are memorable five names who toted the rock for the Bucs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\t
\n\t\n\n
\"Photo\n<\/div>
\n\t

\n\t\tDoug Martin<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\n\n \n \n\n\n\n \n

\n \n Douglas Martin\n  (Muscle Hamster or Dougernaut<\/span>)\n <\/strong>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\tPosition<\/strong>: RB\n\t\n<\/p>\n\n

5-9<\/span>, 210lb<\/span> (175cm, 95kg) <\/p>\n\n\n

\n Born:<\/strong> \n \n\t\tJanuary 13<\/a>, 1989\n \n \n in Stockton, CA<\/a><\/span>\n \n<\/span\"><\/p>\n\n\n

Died:<\/strong>\n October 18<\/a>, 2025 (Aged 36-278d)<\/nobr><\/span>\n \n in CA<\/a><\/span>\n<\/p>\n\n\n

College<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tBoise St.<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t (College Stats<\/a>)\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/p>

Weighted Career AV (100-95-…)<\/a>:<\/strong> 39 (2733rd overall since 1960)\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

High School<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tSt. Mary’s<\/a> (CA<\/a>)\n\t\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Draft<\/strong>: Tampa Bay Buccaneers<\/a> in the 1st round (31st overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\n