The Las Vegas Raiders have been known throughout their history for their high-flying vertical passing game. With names like Kenny Stabler, Jim Plunkett, Cliff Branch and Fred Biletnikoff, late owner Al Davis’ need for speed propelled the Raiders to new heights throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
But behind all of the Raiders’ great offensive teams and during their three Super Bowl wins, their running game also played a significant part in creating the mystic and legend that is Raiders football.
Top 10 running backs in Las Vegas Raiders franchise history
10. Marv Hubbard (1969-1975)
Marv Hubbard was a favorite among Oakland Raiders fans due to his bruising and straight-forward running style. During his career as a Raider, Hubbard rushed for over 4,000 yards and 22 touchdowns playing a pivotal role in establishing Oakland’s reputation as a smash-mouth football team. He also made three Pro Bowl appearances, and his legacy in Raiders history is well regarded by his fans and teammates alike. Â
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9. Josh Jacobs (2019-present)
Josh Jacobs, who has joined the group of Raiders greats recently, has quickly made a name for himself as one of the best running backs in the history of the franchise. Since his rookie year of 2019, Jacobs has showcased a blend of agility, strength and exceptional field vision that hasn’t been seen in the Raiders backfield for quite some time. Jacobs made the Pro Bowl his rookie season and claimed the NFL rushing title in 2022 by running for 1,653 yards and scoring 12 touchdowns.
8. Napoleon Kaufman (1995 2000)
Napoleon Kaufman, known for his speed and agility, added a playmaking element to his Oakland Raiders teams. His best season came in 1997 when he rushed for 1,294 yards. One of Kaufman’s trademarks was his ability to turn any play into a gain. By the end of his career, he had accumulated 4,792 rushing yards and scored 12 touchdowns. Kaufman also is a key Raider off the field and played a big part in the franchise relocating to become the Las Vegas Raiders.
7. Tyrone Wheatley (1999-2004)
Tyrone Wheatley experienced a career revival when he joined the Raiders following four years with the New York Giants. During the early 2000s, Wheatley proved to be an asset for the Raiders, thanks to his powerful running style and his ability to gain yards even in challenging situations.
He played a key role during the Raiders’ memorable 2002 AFC Championship season and throughout his five seasons with the team. Wheatley amassed 3,682 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns as a Raider. Notably, his standout season was in 2000 when he rushed for a career-best 1,046 yards and nine touchdowns. Fans were particularly drawn to Wheatley’s knack for delivering forceful runs that kept defenses on their heels.
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6. Charlie Smith (1968-1974)
In the late 1960s and early 70s, Charlie Smith provided the Raiders with a versatile and athletic back known for his ability to also catch the ball out of the backfield. Smith brought a dual-threat capability to the Raiders, amassing 3,351 rushing yards and scoring 24 touchdowns.
5. Darren McFadden (2008-2014)
Darren McFadden, despite a career plagued by injuries, showcased moments of undeniable talent during his time with the Raiders. His exceptional speed and knack for making game changing plays made him a constant threat whenever he had possession of the ball.
One particular standout season for McFadden was in 2010, where he ran for a career-best 1,157 yards. Throughout his seven year tenure with the Raiders, McFadden amassed a total of 4,247 rushing yards, 25 touchdowns and solidified himself as one of the franchise’s best running backs.
4. Mark van Eeghen (1974-1981)
Mark van Eeghen became synonymous with the Raiders physical style of play during their run in the 1970s. Renowned for his resilience and reliability, van Eeghen played a role in the Raiders wins in Super Bowl XI and XV. His powerful running style perfectly complemented the Raiders vertical tactics. With a record of over 5,907 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns, he stands as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the Raiders franchise.
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3. Clem Daniels (1961-1967)
Clem Daniels’ contributions as one of the all time greatest running backs in Raiders history dates back to their days in the AFL. Daniels showcased skills in both rushing and receiving, playing a role in developing the team’s early offense. He dominated the AFL rushing yards in 1963 and 1967 accumulating over 5,100 rushing yards, scoring 30 touchdowns during his tenure with the Raiders. Undoubtedly, Daniels established himself as one of the premier running backs of his time.
2. Bo Jackson (1987-1990)
Bo Jackson became a household name for his sheer athleticism as both a member of the Los Angeles Raiders and as a professional baseball player. Although he played for the Raiders on a part-time basis, joining them after the Major League Baseball season concluded, his impact on the games he participated in was unforgettable.
Jackson’s exceptional combination of speed and power reached its peak during a Monday Night Football game against the Seattle Seahawks in 1987. In that game he rushed for 221 yards in a display that’s still one of the game’s best prime time performances. Sadly, Jackson’s career was cut short due to a hip injury. Nonetheless, his legacy endures with statistics including 2,782 rushing yards and a total of 16 touchdowns over four seasons.
1. Marcus Allen (1982-1992)
Marcus Allen holds a special place in Raiders running back history. Upon his entry into the NFL in 1982, Allen wasted little time making an impact and earning the title of NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. His exceptional blend of versatility, strength and agility quickly garnered respect from both his peers and passionate Raiders fans.
In 1985, Allen led the league in rushing yards en route to capturing the NFL MVP Award. One of his greatest moments as a Raider was during Super Bowl XVIII when he executed an unforgettable 74-yard touchdown run that remains celebrated as one of the greatest plays in NFL history.
Throughout his tenure with the Raiders, Allen achieved a record of 8,545 rushing yards and a total of 79 touchdowns solidifying his status as one of the most legendary running backs in the history of the NFL.