It’s intriguing that Adrian Peterson, a proud Texas native, left out Dallas Cowboys icon Emmitt Smith from his roster of the top five running backs in NFL history.
Rather than including Smith, the NFL’s all-time rushing leader, Peterson made some interesting selections, mixing two somewhat surprising choices with three widely expected ones. Peterson actually named six running backs but indicated that two of them would rotate off the bench.
“I’ll put myself on there, Barry Sanders, Walter Payton,” Peterson shared on the “Courtside Club” podcast. “I’ve gotta go with Jim Brown. Now, I’ve always said Bo Jackson, because he was just freakish.
“So, I’m going Bo Jackson, and then, L.T. right there, LaDainian Tomlinson. Either one of them is coming off the bench.”
Sanders, Brown, and Payton are undeniably among the greatest running backs of all time. While Tomlinson may not reach the same pinnacle as those three, he’s frequently part of discussions about all-time greats. Tomlinson’s dominance in fantasy football during the 2000s significantly contributed to the game’s widespread popularity.
Peterson’s Rankings and the Omissions: A Discussion on Running Back Greatness
Peterson’s inclusion of himself and Jackson is intriguing. While Peterson showcased exceptional talent in his prime, his later years in the league were not as remarkable. Unlike Sanders, who retired at the height of his career, Peterson continued playing well beyond his prime. While his production waned, Peterson’s durability in the latter part of his career was indeed noteworthy.
Similar to Peterson, Jackson’s remarkable talent during his brief tenure with the Raiders is undeniable. However, Jackson’s abbreviated NFL career, spanning only 38 games, often excludes him from discussions of all-time running backs.
Yet, Jackson maximized his time in the league. He consistently showcased his prowess, leading the NFL in longest runs for three of his four seasons and maintaining an impressive average of 5.4 yards per carry.
Smith’s Legacy: A Case for Recognition Among NFL’s Greatest Running Backs
While Peterson rightfully honors exceptional backs, Smith’s omission from any list of the NFL’s greatest running backs seems inconceivable. Smith’s monumental contributions propelled the 1990s Cowboys to unprecedented success, securing three Super Bowl victories in four years.
Smith’s remarkable impact was vividly evident in 1993. Following a contentious contract dispute that led to a delayed start to the season, Smith’s return in Week 3 sparked a remarkable 15-2 run for the Cowboys. His pivotal role culminated in both league and Super Bowl MVP awards, as he led Dallas to a Super Bowl triumph over Buffalo with a stellar performance of 132 yards and two touchdowns.
Despite Smith’s numerous accolades, detractors often downplay his achievements by attributing them to the strength of his team. However, such criticism overlooks the immense skill and determination that defined Smith’s illustrious career, potentially influencing his absence from Peterson’s esteemed list.
