{"id":877,"date":"2025-04-15T17:27:12","date_gmt":"2025-04-15T21:27:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/?p=877"},"modified":"2026-02-20T13:52:50","modified_gmt":"2026-02-20T17:52:50","slug":"denver-broncos-top-5-running-backs-of-all-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/2025\/04\/denver-broncos-top-5-running-backs-of-all-time\/","title":{"rendered":"Denver Broncos Top 5 Running Backs of All Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

(last updated on February 20, 2026)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the gridiron greats of the past to the modern-day stars, the Denver Broncos have been home to some of the most iconic running backs in NFL history<\/a>. Let’s dive into the careers of the top five running backs who have left their mark on Mile High City fans and the franchise’s legacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As we trek on this captivating journey through time, we will delve into the careers of the top five running backs in the Denver Broncos’ 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This post will delve into each standout player’s accomplishments, impact, and legacy. Their significant contributions helped shape the Broncos’ identity and cemented their place among the greatest running backs in team history, a legacy that every Denver fan can be proud of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Top Five Running Backs in Denver Broncos History<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Playing home games in the high altitude of the Rocky Mountains, the Broncos generally have some very unpredictable weather for games that might reduce the effectiveness of the passing game. That is where having a solid rushing attack comes in. Here are the top five Broncos running backs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\n\t\tSammy Winder<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\n\n\n\n \n

\n \n Sammy Winder\n \n <\/strong>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

5-11<\/span>, 203lb<\/span> (180cm, 92kg) <\/p>\n\n\n

\n Born:<\/strong> \n \n\t\tJuly 15<\/a>, 1959\n \n \n in Madison, MS<\/a><\/span>\n \n<\/span> (Age: 65-173d)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n

College<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tSouthern Miss<\/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> 41 (2488th overall since 1960)\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

High School<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tRidgeland<\/a> (MS<\/a>)\n\t\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Draft<\/strong>: Denver Broncos<\/a> in the 5th round (131st overall) of the 1982 NFL Draft<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n

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