Where Does Ezekiel Elliot Rank Among Dallas Cowboys Running Backs All Time?

The Dallas Cowboys have a rich history of talented running backs, and over the years, many great players have graced the field for “America’s Team.” The team decided to part ways with veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott last week so in this post, we will be counting down the top four running backs in Dallas Cowboys history.

Honorable Mentions:

Calvin Hill

Hill played for the Cowboys from 1969 to 1974 and was a four-time Pro Bowler. He helped the team win its first-ever Super Bowl in 1971 and finished his career with 5,009 rushing yards.

DeMarco Murray

Murray played for the Cowboys from 2011 to 2014 and was a Pro Bowler in 2013. He led the league in rushing that season with 1,845 yards and set a single-season franchise record for rushing yards. He finished his Cowboys career with 4,526 rushing yards.

Herschel Walker

Walker played for the Cowboys from 1986 to 1989 and was one of the most dominant running backs in the league during his time with the team. He was a two-time Pro Bowler and helped lead the Cowboys to two playoff appearances. Although he didn’t play with the team for very long, his impact was significant and he is considered one of the greatest running backs in Cowboys history.

Now, let’s dive into the top four running backs in Dallas Cowboys history.

4. Don Perkins

Perkins played for the Cowboys from 1961 to 1968 and was the team’s all-time leading rusher until Emmitt Smith surpassed him. Perkins was a three-time Pro Bowler and helped lead the Cowboys to their first-ever playoff appearance in 1966. He finished his career with 6,217 rushing yards and was inducted into the Cowboys’ Ring of Honor in 1976.

3. Ezekiel Elliott

Elliott played for the Cowboys from 2016 to 2022 and established himself as one of the team’s best running backs ever. He was a Pro Bowler and First-Team All-Pro selection as a rookie in 2016 and has been a Pro Bowler in two other seasons. He rushed for over 8,000 yards in his career, good enough for third all time in Cowboys history.

2. Tony Dorsett

Dorsett played for the Cowboys from 1977 to 1987 and helped lead the team to two Super Bowl championships. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and a three-time First-Team All-Pro selection. Dorsett finished his career with 12,739 rushing yards and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994.

1. Emmitt Smith

Smith is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. He played for the Cowboys from 1990 to 2002 and helped the team win three Super Bowls and is still the league’s all time leader in rushing yards. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.