New York Giants, founded in 1925, have produced a number of outstanding running backs. However, not all former Big Blue running backs get the accolades they deserve, even if some of them are among the finest ever. In their long history, the New York Giants have seen some of the league’s top running backs, and they’re one of the league’s most storied teams.
Here is a list ranking the top five Giants running backs of all time.
1. Tiki Barber
If Tiki Barber hadn’t been injured so early in his career, he may be considered one of the all-time greats as a running back. At the University of Virginia, Tiki Barber was named ACC Player of the Year in 1996 and was also an Academic All-American. As a third-down running back, he was picked in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft by the New York Giants.
2. Frank Gifford
The New York Giants drafted Frank Gifford in the first round of the 1952 NFL Draft with the 11th overall choice. A year at Bakersfield Junior College followed by a transfer to Southern California, where he was awarded an All-American, earned him a spot on the varsity football team. Defensive back, running back, and wide receiver are all positions he has played in the NFL, with eight Pro Bowl appearances between them.
3. Ottis Anderson
With 14 touchdowns and 1,023 yards in 1989, Anderson was awarded NFL Comeback Player of the Year. The next season, he was the Giants’ leading rusher, and he was awarded MVP of Super Bowl XXV for his efforts. However, in 1985, he began to suffer from leg problems, which substantially restricted his playing time.
4. Rodney Hampton
Until Tiki Barber overtook him in 2004, Hampton had the most career running yards by a Giant in just eight seasons, seven of which were spent as the starter. Every season from 1991-1995 he surpassed 1000 yards, but he was forced to retire due to poor seasons in 1996 and 1997.
5. Joe Morris
In 1985, he rushed for 1,336 yards and 21 touchdowns while being selected to two Pro Bowls. He has 159 running yards and two touchdowns in one game for the 1987 Super Bowl champions.
