{"id":901,"date":"2025-04-19T15:33:53","date_gmt":"2025-04-19T19:33:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/?p=901"},"modified":"2026-02-23T14:11:32","modified_gmt":"2026-02-23T18:11:32","slug":"detroit-lions-top-5-running-backs-of-all-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pro-football-reference.com\/pfr-blog\/2025\/04\/detroit-lions-top-5-running-backs-of-all-time\/","title":{"rendered":"Detroit Lions Top 5 Running Backs of All Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

(last updated on February 23, 2026)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the past gridiron greats in Portsmouth, Ohio to the modern-day NFL stars, the Detroit Lions have been home to some of the most iconic running backs in football history<\/a>. 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.<\/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 Detroit Lions’ 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 Lions’ identity and cemented their place among the greatest running backs in team history, a legacy that every Motor City 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

Top 5 Lions Running Backs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Detroit Lions 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 Lions’ 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 chapter highlights the history of the top five running backs in Silver and Honolulu Blue, celebrating their contributions and the big paw mark they left on the game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\n\t\tBilly Sims<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\n\n\n\n \n

\n \n Billy Ray Sims\n \n <\/strong>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

6-0<\/span>, 212lb<\/span> (183cm, 96kg) <\/p>\n\n\n

\n Born:<\/strong> \n \n\t\tSeptember 18<\/a>, 1955\n \n \n in St. Louis, MO<\/a><\/span>\n \n<\/span> (Age: 69-123d)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n

College<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tOklahoma<\/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> 58 (1189th overall since 1960)\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

High School<\/strong>: \n \n\t\tHooks<\/a> (TX<\/a>)\n\t\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Draft<\/strong>: Detroit Lions<\/a> in the 1st round (1st overall) of the 1980 NFL Draft<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n

Twitter:<\/strong>\n @billysims1978<\/a>\n \n\n<\/p>\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\n