5 Best Running Backs in Chargers History

Melvin Gordon III spent five seasons as the Chargers’ primary running back, establishing himself as one of the most productive backs in franchise history. He rushed for 4,240 yards, the fifth-most in franchise history, and scored 36 rushing touchdowns.

Gordon also earned a Pro Bowl selection and ranks among the franchise’s top running backs in total touchdowns.

4. Marion Butts (1989-1993)

A powerful runner who made his mark with the Chargers in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Marion Butts rushed for 4,297 yards, the fourth-most in franchise history.

He earned Pro Bowl selections in 1990 and 1991 and was one of the league’s most productive backs during his time in San Diego.

3. Austin Ekeler (2017-2023)

Austin Ekeler developed from an undrafted free agent into one of the most dynamic running backs in Chargers history.

A dangerous dual-threat weapon, Ekeler finished his Chargers career with 4,355 rushing yards, third-most in franchise history, while ranking second in total touchdowns.

His 69 career touchdowns are among the most in franchise history and rank second among Chargers running backs.

2. Paul Lowe (1960-1968)

Paul Lowe was part of the Chargers’ inaugural 1960 roster and quickly emerged as the franchise’s first standout running back.

He spent nine seasons with the team, rushing for 4,972 yards, second-most in franchise history. He also ranks among the franchise leaders in rushing touchdowns and games played by a running back.

Lowe was a four-time All-AFL selection and a two-time AFL All-Star. He received AFL Offensive Player of the Year votes three times and won two AFL rushing titles. He was also a key contributor to the Chargers’ 1963 AFL Championship team.

1. LaDainian Tomlinson (2001-2009)

There is no debate over the No. 1 running back in Chargers history. LaDainian Tomlinson is a Pro Football Hall of Famer and one of the greatest running backs in NFL history.

Tomlinson rushed for 12,490 yards during his career with the Chargers and won the 2006 NFL MVP award after producing a career-best 1,815 rushing yards and an NFL-record 31 total touchdowns.

He made an immediate impact as a rookie, rushing for 1,236 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2001. That marked the first of eight consecutive seasons in which he surpassed 1,000 rushing yards.

Tomlinson was also an exceptional receiving threat, catching at least 50 passes in nine of his 11 NFL seasons. He scored at least 10 rushing touchdowns in every season he played for San Diego from 2001 through 2009.

Between 2004 and 2005, he scored a touchdown in 18 consecutive games, tying the NFL record previously set by Lenny Moore of the Baltimore Colts in 1965.

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