3 Greatest Running Backs in Vikings History

3 Greatest Running Backs in Vikings History

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Despite never being able to put it together and win a Super Bowl, the Minnesota Vikings have had some good teams and great players. One of the positions where they Vikings have sported some of the NFL's best is in their backfield at running back.

These are three of the greatest running backs in Vikings history.

3. Robert Smith (1993-2000)

After fighting through injuries his first four seasons with the Vikings, Robert Smith became a tremendous running back for Minnesota and was one of the smoothest to carry the rock. He ended his career with four straight 1,000-yard seasons, being voted to a Pro Bowl in two of the years. He totaled 6,818 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns during his eight seasons in the NFL, while adding another 1,292 yards and six touchdowns as a receiver. Smith also totaled just nine fumbles in eight seasons.

2. Chuck Foreman (1973-79)

Chuck Foreman was a trend-setting running back, thriving as a receiver out of the backfield. In Minnesota, he totaled 3,057 yards and 23 touchdowns as a receiver, while adding another 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns on the ground. Foreman's rushing yards rank second in Vikings history, while he rushing touchdowns are tied for second. He also was voted to five straight Pro Bowls.

1. Adrian Peterson (2007-16)

There is little doubt who the greatest Vikings running back is. Adrian Peterson is by far the leading rusher, nearly doubling the next closest back in yards and touchdowns. Peterson totaled 11,747 rushing yards, averaging 95.5 rushing yards per game. He also totaled 97 rushing touchdowns, led the league in rushing for three seasons and won an MVP. Peterson is still running strong with Washington.

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