Most Career Rushing Yards by a Buffalo Bills Player
When it comes to legendary ground games, the Buffalo Bills have built one of the most impressive rushing legacies in the NFL. From the explosive dual-threat ability of Thurman Thomas to the unforgettable dominance of O.J. Simpson, the Bills have boasted some of the most iconic players in rushing history. But what makes Buffalo’s rushing attack even more unique is the inclusion of quarterbacks like Josh Allen, whose bruising style has elevated him to the top ranks.
This list isn’t just a collection of running backs; it’s a tribute to Buffalo’s versatile ground game. Whether it’s Thurman Thomas doing it all or Josh Allen bulldozing through defenders, these players have redefined what it means to dominate the run game in Buffalo. With Allen still adding to his numbers, the future of this list is anything but settled.
TOP 10 LIST
10. C.J. Spiller – 3,321 Yards
Spiller brought game-breaking speed to the Buffalo backfield. Though his stint was short, his explosive plays made him a fan favorite — and earned him a spot in the top 10.
9. Willis McGahee – 3,365 Yards
McGahee bounced back from a college injury to become a tough, productive runner in Buffalo. He delivered three straight 1,000-yard seasons before moving on to Baltimore.
8. Wray Carlton – 3,368 Yards
One of the early stars of the franchise, Carlton was a key part of Buffalo’s AFL success in the 1960s. His 3,300+ yards helped build the team’s run-first identity.
7. LeSean McCoy – 3,814 Yards
Shady was slippery, elusive, and one of the smoothest backs the Bills ever had. He tallied two 1,100+ yard seasons in Buffalo and brought veteran leadership to the offense.
6. Travis Henry – 3,849 Yards
Henry was a bulldozer who delivered back-to-back 1,300-yard seasons in the early 2000s. Injuries shortened his Bills career, but his impact was undeniable.
5. Josh Allen – 4,142 Yards (Active)
Yes — a quarterback. Allen has been a red-zone wrecking ball and open-field nightmare since his rookie year. He’s fifth all-time and climbing fast with no signs of slowing.
4. Joe Cribbs – 4,445 Yards
Cribbs was ahead of his time — a dual-threat back who could do it all. He made three Pro Bowls in just five seasons with the Bills and always seemed to deliver in big moments.
3. Fred Jackson – 5,646 Yards
Undrafted. Unstoppable. Jackson was the heart of the Bills during a chaotic era. His toughness, patience, and loyalty made him a franchise favorite.
2. O.J. Simpson – 10,183 Yards
On the field, The Juice was pure magic. Simpson was the first player to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season and remains one of the most dominant runners in league history.
1. Thurman Thomas – 11,938 Yards
No one ran longer or stronger for the Bills. A key cog in Buffalo’s four Super Bowl runs, Thomas could run, catch, and block — the full package and a Hall of Famer.
Ranking the 10 best career rushing yard totals in Buffalo Bills history
Top 50 Career Rushing Performances in Buffalo Bills History
This list features every Bills player who recorded at least 500 career rushing yards — from legends like Thurman Thomas and O.J. Simpson to dual-threat quarterbacks and reliable role players.
| Rank | Player Name | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thurman Thomas | 11938 |
| 2 | O.J. Simpson | 10183 |
| 3 | Fred Jackson | 5646 |
| 4 | Joe Cribbs | 4445 |
| 5 | Josh Allen | 4142 |
| 6 | Travis Henry | 3849 |
| 7 | LeSean McCoy | 3814 |
| 8 | Wray Carlton | 3368 |
| 9 | Willis McGahee | 3365 |
| 10 | C.J. Spiller | 3321 |
| 11 | Devin Singletary | 3151 |
| 12 | Cookie Gilchrist | 3056 |
| 13 | Antowain Smith | 2932 |
| 14 | Jim Braxton | 2842 |
| 15 | Marshawn Lynch | 2765 |
| 16 | James Cook | 2638 |
| 17 | Kenneth Davis | 2460 |
| 18 | Greg Bell | 2420 |
| 19 | Curtis Brown | 2171 |
| 20 | Roland Hooks | 1682 |
| 21 | Terry Miller | 1579 |
| 22 | Tyrod Taylor | 1575 |
| 23 | Darick Holmes | 1383 |
| 24 | Robb Riddick | 1341 |
| 25 | Joe Ferguson | 1174 |
| 26 | Roosevelt Leaks | 1138 |
| 27 | Wayne Patrick | 1084 |
| 28 | Jim Kelly | 1049 |
| 29 | Jonathan Linton | 1002 |
| 30 | Ronnie Harmon | 968 |
| 31 | Shawn Bryson | 967 |
| 32 | Zack Moss | 917 |
| 33 | Jamie Mueller | 901 |
| 34 | Doug Flutie | 885 |
| 35 | Bobby Burnett | 862 |
| 36 | Mike Gillislee | 844 |
| 37 | Ryan Fitzpatrick | 822 |
| 38 | Jack Kemp | 780 |
| 39 | Rob Johnson | 732 |
| 40 | Keith Lincoln | 685 |
| 41 | Carwell Gardner | 621 |
| 42 | Frank Gore | 599 |
| 43 | Max Anderson | 599 |
| 44 | Wayne Crow | 595 |
| 45 | Larry Watkins | 584 |
| 46 | Larry Kinnebrew | 551 |
| 47 | Carl Byrum | 527 |
| 48 | Karlos Williams | 517 |
| 49 | Art Baker | 507 |
| 50 | Andre Reed | 500 |
Thurman Thomas still reigns as Buffalo’s all-time rushing king, but Josh Allen’s presence on this list shows how the game has evolved. From legends like O.J. and Fred Jackson to modern stars like Allen and Shady McCoy, the Bills’ backfield history is one of versatility, violence, and volume. And with Allen still active, the top 5 might need rearranging soon.
FAQ SECTION
Who holds the Bills record for most career rushing yards?
Thurman Thomas holds the record with 11,938 rushing yards as a Buffalo Bill.
Is Josh Allen the only quarterback on this list?
Yes — Josh Allen is the only QB in the top 10, currently ranking 5th with 4,142 yards.
Are any Hall of Famers included?
Yes — both Thurman Thomas and O.J. Simpson are in the Hall of Fame and rank #1 and #2 in career rushing yards for Buffalo.
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