Running Backs Who Won MVP: A Journey Through Gridiron Greatness and the Unpredictable Nature of Football

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in the NFL is one of the most prestigious honors a player can receive. It signifies not just individual excellence but also the ability to elevate a team to new heights. Among the various positions in football, running backs have a unique place in MVP history. Their ability to dominate games through sheer force, agility, and vision has made them some of the most celebrated players in the league. However, the journey of running backs who have won MVP is not just a tale of athletic prowess; it’s also a reflection of the unpredictable nature of football, where a single play can change the course of a season.

The Golden Era of Running Backs

The 1970s and 1980s are often referred to as the golden era of running backs in the NFL. During this period, players like O.J. Simpson, Walter Payton, and Earl Campbell not only dominated the league but also redefined what it meant to be a running back. O.J. Simpson, for instance, became the first running back to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season, a feat that earned him the MVP award in 1973. His combination of speed and power made him a nightmare for defenses, and his MVP season is still considered one of the greatest in NFL history.

Walter Payton, known as “Sweetness,” was another running back who left an indelible mark on the league. Payton won the MVP award in 1977 after rushing for 1,852 yards and 14 touchdowns. His ability to break tackles and his relentless work ethic made him a fan favorite and a symbol of excellence. Earl Campbell, on the other hand, was a bruising runner who won the MVP award in 1979. Known for his punishing style, Campbell rushed for 1,697 yards and 19 touchdowns that season, earning him the nickname “The Tyler Rose.”

The Modern Era: A Shift in Focus

As the NFL evolved, so did the role of the running back. The advent of the passing game and the rise of quarterbacks as the focal point of offenses led to a decline in the number of running backs winning MVP awards. However, there have been notable exceptions. In 2006, LaDainian Tomlinson had one of the most remarkable seasons in NFL history, rushing for 1,815 yards and scoring a record 28 touchdowns. His performance earned him the MVP award and solidified his place as one of the greatest running backs of all time.

Adrian Peterson is another running back who defied the odds and won the MVP award in the modern era. In 2012, Peterson came within nine yards of breaking Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record, finishing with 2,097 yards. His incredible comeback from a torn ACL the previous year made his MVP season even more remarkable. Peterson’s combination of speed, power, and determination made him a force to be reckoned with, and his MVP award was a testament to his resilience and talent.

The Unpredictable Nature of Football

While running backs like Tomlinson and Peterson have proven that they can still win MVP awards in the modern NFL, the reality is that the position has become increasingly devalued. The rise of the passing game, the emphasis on quarterback play, and the shorter shelf life of running backs have all contributed to this shift. However, the unpredictable nature of football means that anything can happen. A running back could have a breakout season, defy expectations, and once again claim the MVP award.

Consider the case of Derrick Henry. In 2020, Henry became the eighth player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. While he didn’t win the MVP award that year, his performance was a reminder of the impact a dominant running back can have on a game. If Henry or another running back can replicate or even surpass that level of performance, they could very well find themselves in the MVP conversation.

The Legacy of Running Back MVPs

The running backs who have won MVP awards have left an indelible mark on the NFL. Their performances have not only defined eras but also inspired future generations of players. From O.J. Simpson’s record-breaking season to Adrian Peterson’s incredible comeback, these players have shown that running backs can still be the most valuable players on the field.

However, the legacy of running back MVPs is also a reminder of the ever-changing nature of football. As the game continues to evolve, so too will the criteria for what makes an MVP. Whether it’s a quarterback, a wide receiver, or even a defensive player, the MVP award will always be a reflection of the times. But for now, the running backs who have won MVP awards stand as a testament to the power, agility, and determination that define the position.

Related Q&A

Q: Who was the last running back to win the MVP award? A: The last running back to win the MVP award was Adrian Peterson in 2012.

Q: How many running backs have won the MVP award in NFL history? A: As of 2023, 10 running backs have won the MVP award in NFL history.

Q: What is the most rushing yards by a running back in an MVP season? A: The most rushing yards by a running back in an MVP season is 2,105 yards, achieved by Eric Dickerson in 1984. However, Dickerson did not win the MVP that year; the record for an MVP-winning running back is 2,097 yards by Adrian Peterson in 2012.

Q: Can a running back still win the MVP award in today’s NFL? A: While it has become increasingly difficult for running backs to win the MVP award due to the emphasis on quarterback play, it is still possible. A running back would need to have a historically dominant season, similar to Adrian Peterson in 2012 or Derrick Henry in 2020, to be considered for the award.