Top 10 Players With The Most Rushing Touchdowns In NFL History

David

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Post on May 16, 2025

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Top 10 NFL Players with the Most Rushing Touchdowns: A Legacy of Power and Precision

The roar of the crowd, the thud of pads, the electrifying burst into the endzone – a rushing touchdown is the pinnacle of gridiron glory. For running backs, piling up rushing touchdowns is a testament to power, agility, and an unwavering will to score. Today, we delve into the annals of NFL history to uncover the top 10 players who have crossed the goal line most often on the ground. This list represents a legacy of dominance, etched in the record books for generations to come.

Methodology: This ranking considers only rushing touchdowns, excluding receiving and return touchdowns. Data is current as of October 26, 2023 and subject to change.

The Titans of the Touchdown:

1. Jim Brown (126): The legendary Cleveland Browns running back remains untouchable at the top of this list. Brown's dominance in the 1950s and 60s redefined the running back position, setting a standard that continues to inspire awe. His incredible touchdown total speaks volumes about his unparalleled skill and power. Learn more about Jim Brown's legendary career .

2. Emmitt Smith (164): The Dallas Cowboys icon and all-time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith, cemented his place in NFL history with an astonishing number of rushing touchdowns. His consistency and durability were key factors in his success.

3. Walter Payton (110): "Sweetness" himself, Walter Payton, the Chicago Bears legend, was known for his incredible elusiveness and determination. His rushing touchdowns are a testament to his exceptional talent and perseverance. Discover more about Walter Payton's incredible career .

4. Barry Sanders (99): The Detroit Lions' electrifying Barry Sanders possessed a unique blend of speed, agility, and vision. His ability to make defenders miss was unmatched, leading to numerous touchdowns throughout his career.

5. Gale Sayers (68): Despite a tragically short career cut short by injury, Gale Sayers left an indelible mark on the NFL. His remarkable agility and scoring ability earned him a spot among the all-time greats. Read more about Sayers' impactful career .

6. Marcus Allen (125): A versatile back known for his powerful running style and ability to catch passes, Marcus Allen showcased his scoring prowess throughout his career with the Los Angeles Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs.

7. LaDainian Tomlinson (146): The San Diego Chargers' star, LaDainian Tomlinson, was a force of nature in his prime. His combination of speed, power, and vision made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

8. Franco Harris (91): A key member of the famed "Steel Curtain" defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Franco Harris was also a dominant runner, known for his power and ability to find the endzone.

9. Shaun Alexander (100): The Seattle Seahawks' Shaun Alexander had a remarkable run in the early 2000s, consistently finding the endzone and helping lead his team to success.

10. Jerome Bettis (91): "The Bus" earned his nickname for his powerful, unstoppable running style. Jerome Bettis consistently powered his way into the endzone for the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Enduring Legacy of Rushing Touchdowns:

These top 10 players represent an elite group of running backs who have consistently demonstrated the skill, power, and determination needed to score touchdowns. Their contributions to the game are undeniable, and their names will forever be etched in NFL history. Their legacy inspires current and future generations of running backs to strive for greatness.

What are your thoughts on this list? Which player is your favorite rushing touchdown scorer? Share your opinions in the comments below!