A legendary running back who dominated the NFL in the late 1970s and early 1980s, earning numerous accolades and setting records with his powerful and elusive playing style.
Earl Campbell, widely regarded as one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history, is known for his aggressive and punishing running style, which earned him the nickname "The Tyler Rose." With a career spanning eight seasons, Campbell left an indelible mark on the sport, leaving defenders in his wake and breaking tackles with ease.
Born on March 29, 1955, in Tyler, Texas, Earl Christian Campbell was the sixth of 11 siblings to Ann and Bert B.C. Campbell. After his father's passing when he was just 11 years old, Campbell found solace in sports, particularly football. He played college football for the University of Texas Longhorns, where he won the Heisman Trophy and earned unanimous All-American honors in his senior season.
The Houston Oilers selected Campbell first overall in the 1978 NFL draft, and he made an immediate impact, earning NFL Rookie of the Year honors. Campbell's impressive performance continued in the following seasons, earning him the NFL's Offensive Player of the Year award three years in a row. In 1979, he was named the AP NFL Most Valuable Player after leading the league in rushing yards and touchdowns.
With head coach Bum Phillips, Campbell's emergence in Houston coincided with the Luv Ya Blue era, a period of sustained success in which the Oilers made three straight playoff appearances. During this time, Campbell became the centerpiece of Houston's offense, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.
Campbell was traded to the New Orleans Saints six games into the 1984 season, where he spent his final season and a half before retiring. Despite his relatively short career, Campbell was inducted into both the College Football Hall of Fame (1990) and Pro Football Hall of Fame (1991). In 2019, he was named to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. The University of Texas and the Tennessee Titans have retired Campbell's jersey number in his honor.
Campbell's father, Bert B.C. Campbell, passed away when he was just 11 years old, an event that had a profound impact on his life. Despite facing numerous challenges, Campbell persevered, using football as a means to overcome adversity and achieve greatness.
Today, Earl Campbell remains an iconic figure in American football, his legacy continues to inspire and motivate generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts alike.
72 Years Old
Legendary running back and philanthropist who dominated the NFL with his powerful rushing and charismatic personality, earning him the nickname "Sweetness."
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Legendary running back who made an iconic "Immaculate Reception" play in a 1972 playoff game, leading his team to a stunning upset victory.
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A former NFL running back and MVP of Super Bowl XXV, known for his dominant performances on the field and smooth transition to a successful broadcasting career.
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Legendary running back who won the Heisman Trophy and set numerous records in college, then went on to have a Hall of Fame NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys.
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Heisman Trophy winner and Pro Football Hall of Famer who played for the Los Angeles Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs, later becoming a sportscaster.
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Hall of Fame running back who dominated the NFL in the 1990s, leading the Buffalo Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. Known for his elusive and explosive playing style.
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Legendary running back and actor who dominated the NFL in the 1950s and 60s, then transitioned to a successful film career, starring in movies like "The Dirty Dozen" and "Any Given Sunday".
