Are There Any White Running Backs In The NFL?

Are There Any White Running Backs In The NFL?

This is a question that has been asked many times, and the answer may surprise you. While there are many talented running backs of all colors in the NFL, there are currently no white running backs on any NFL roster.

Introduction

In the National Football League (NFL), a running back is a member of the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback to rush the ball, and to block for the quarterback. Running backs are among the most versatile players in the game, often used as both runners and receivers.

There has been much debate over whether or not white players can succeed at the running back position in the NFL. While there have been some great white running backs in NFL history, they are definitely in the minority. In recent years, there has only been one or two white running backs that have seen significant playing time in the NFL.

So, what’s the deal? Are there any white running backs in the NFL? Let’s take a look at some of the data to find out.

The History of White Running Backs in the NFL

Over the years, there have been a number of white running backs who have made their mark in the NFL. Some of the most notable include:

– Jim Brown: One of the greatest players in NFL history, Brown was a dominating force for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965. He is widely considered to be one of the best running backs of all time, regardless of race.

– Larry Csonka: A member of the famed “Miami Dolphins Perfect Season” team of 1972, Csonka was a bruising fullback who helped lead the Dolphins to victory in Super Bowl VII. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

– Franco Harris: Another Hall of Famer, Harris is best remembered for his “Immaculate Reception” against the Oakland Raiders in a 1972 playoff game. He went on to help the Pittsburgh Steelers win four Super Bowls in the 1970s.

– Walter Payton: A Chicago Bears legend, Payton holds a number of NFL rushing records, including most career yards and most touchdowns. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1993.

– Marcus Allen: A star for both the Los Angeles Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs, Allen was named NFL MVP in 1985 after rushing for a then-record 1,815 yards. He retired as one of only two players with more than 10,000 career rushing yards and 5,000 career receiving yards.

The Present Day

In the present day, the NFL is made up of mostly black running backs. In fact, of the top 15 running backs in terms of rushing yards in the 2016 season, only one is white. That player is Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson, who is also biracial.

The Future of White Running Backs in the NFL

With the NFL becoming more and more of a passing league, the role of the running back has diminished in recent years. Nevertheless, the running back is still an integral part of any successful NFL offense. And while there has been a trend in recent years of teams using smaller, quicker backs, there is still a place in the league for big, physical runners.

One thing that has become clear in recent years is that NFL teams are looking for running backs who can do more than just run the ball. They want backs who can catch the ball out of the backfield and be threats in the passing game. They also want backs who can contribute on special teams. This has made it harder for white running backs to find a place in the league.

There are currently only two white running backs on NFL rosters: Mark Ingram of the New Orleans Saints and Tim Hightower of the San Francisco 49ers. Both Ingram and Hightower are big, physical runners who have had success in short-yardage and goal-line situations. However, they have not been used much as receivers out of the backfield or on special teams.

The future of white running backs in the NFL will likely be determined by their ability to contribute on all three phases of the game: offense, defense, and special teams. If they can show that they are versatile players who can make an impact on all three phases, then they will have a place in the league. Otherwise, they will continue to be overshadowed by their more athletic and versatile counterparts.

Conclusion

To conclude, there are currently no starting white running backs in the NFL. While this may be due to a variety of factors, the lack of opportunities for white players at the position is likely a contributing factor. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of white players drafted or signed by NFL teams, but they have largely been relegated to backup or special teams roles.