American · Sealy, Texas · Born 2 September 1960Eric Dickerson was a Hall of Fame running back who set the NFL single-season rushing record (2,105 yards in 1984) that still stands.
Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record has survived more than four decades of history's best running backs trying to break it: 2,105 yards in 1984, a mark no one has approached since. Born in Sealy, Texas, in 1960, he formed the "Pony Express" backfield with Craig James at SMU before the Rams made him the second overall pick in 1983. The Los Angeles Rams selected Dickerson with the second overall pick in the 1983 NFL Draft, immediately recognizing his rare combination of size, speed, and vision. His rookie season proved spectacular, as he rushed for 1,808 yards and 18 touchdowns, earning NFL Rookie of the Year honors. The following year delivered his masterpiece performance: 2,105 rushing yards in 1984, shattering O.J. Simpson's single-season record by 101 yards. This achievement came during his second of four consecutive Pro Bowl seasons with Los Angeles. Dickerson's tenure with the Rams ended abruptly in 1987 when contract disputes led to a complex three-team trade that sent him to the Indianapolis Colts. He continued his excellence in Indianapolis, rushing for over 1,000 yards in three of his four seasons there. Later stops with the Los Angeles Raiders and Atlanta Falcons rounded out his 11-year career. The defining characteristic of Dickerson's style was his distinctive upright running posture and exceptionally long stride, which allowed him to cover ground efficiently while maintaining balance through contact. His career rushing total of 13,259 yards ranked second all-time upon his retirement. The Pro Football Hall of Fame inducted him in 1999, recognizing his transformative impact on the running back position. His 1984 rushing record remains unbroken decades later — the longest-standing record at the position and a benchmark that still defines rushing excellence in the modern NFL.
LA Rams/Colts running back, single-season rushing record holder
How They Played
Powerful runner with exceptional speed and upright running style, known for his distinctive goggles and ability to break long runs
Lasting Impact
Considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, holder of the single-season rushing record for over 40 years
Career Honours
- Pro Football Hall of Fame
- NFL single-season rushing record (2,105 yards, 1984)
- 6x Pro Bowl
- 5x First-Team All-Pro
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Rams | 1983–1987 | 71 |
| Indianapolis Colts | 1987–1991 | 64 |
| Los Angeles Raiders | 1992–1992 | 4 |
| Atlanta Falcons | 1993–1993 | 4 |
| Green Bay Packers | 1993–1993 | 1 |
American Athletes