The Detroit Lions have a rich history that dates back to 1930, and over the years, the team has seen some of the greatest running backs in NFL history. From Hall of Famers to record-setters and game-changers, Detroit Lions RBs have left their mark on the league. In this article, we will take a look at the all-time greatest running backs in Detroit Lions history, and what made them so special.
The Early Years: Doak Walker and Billy Sims
Doak Walker was drafted by the Lions in 1950, and he quickly became one of the best running backs in the league. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and a two-time All-Pro selection, and he helped the Lions win two NFL championships in 1952 and 1953. Walker was known for his versatility, as he was equally effective as a runner, receiver, and kicker.
Billy Sims was drafted by the Lions in 1980, and he wasted no time making an impact. He rushed for over 1,300 yards and 13 touchdowns in his rookie season, and he was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Sims went on to make three Pro Bowls in his career, and he was a two-time All-Pro selection. Unfortunately, Sims' career was cut short due to injuries, but he will always be remembered as one of the most electrifying running backs in Lions history.
Barry Sanders: The Greatest of Them All
Barry Sanders needs no introduction. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, and he spent his entire career with the Lions. Sanders was a 10-time Pro Bowler, a six-time First-Team All-Pro selection, and he won the NFL MVP award in 1997. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first 10 seasons, and he led the league in rushing four times. Sanders' highlight-reel runs are still talked about to this day, and his jersey number 20 is retired by the Lions.
Sanders retired abruptly in 1999, shocking the football world. He left the game with 15,269 rushing yards, which is still third on the NFL's all-time list. Sanders' legacy as the greatest Detroit Lions RB of all time is secure, and his impact on the game will never be forgotten.
Recent Years: Kevin Jones and Reggie Bush
Kevin Jones was drafted by the Lions in 2004, and he showed glimpses of greatness in his rookie season. He rushed for over 1,100 yards and five touchdowns, and he was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team. Unfortunately, injuries derailed Jones' career, and he was out of the league by 2010. Despite his short career, Jones will always be remembered as a promising young running back who had the potential to be great.
Reggie Bush signed with the Lions in 2013, and he brought a new dimension to the team's offense. Bush was a dynamic runner and receiver, and he helped the Lions make the playoffs in his first season with the team. In two seasons with the Lions, Bush rushed for over 1,000 yards and caught 94 passes for over 1,000 yards. While his time in Detroit was brief, Bush left a lasting impression on the team and its fans.
The Future: D'Andre Swift
D'Andre Swift was drafted by the Lions in 2020, and he showed flashes of greatness in his rookie season. He rushed for over 500 yards and caught 46 passes for over 350 yards, and he scored eight touchdowns. Swift has all the tools to be a great running back in the NFL, and he will look to build on his promising rookie season in the years to come.
In Conclusion
The Detroit Lions have had some of the greatest running backs in NFL history, and each player on this list has left their mark on the team and the league. From Doak Walker to Barry Sanders to D'Andre Swift, the Lions have a rich history at the running back position. As the team looks to the future, fans can be excited about the potential of Swift and what he can bring to the team.
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