Most Career Rushing Yards by a Cleveland Browns Player
The Cleveland Browns’ identity has always been intertwined with their dominant ground game, and it’s no surprise that Jim Brown’s name reigns supreme. With 12,312 rushing yards, Brown’s legacy goes beyond the Browns — he’s often regarded as the greatest running back in NFL history. But the Browns’ rushing history isn’t just about one player. From the explosive Leroy Kelly to modern stars like Nick Chubb, Cleveland’s backfield has always been filled with hard-nosed runners who’ve defined the team’s offensive identity.
What makes the Browns’ rushing legacy stand out is the mix of eras, styles, and contributions. Whether it was the relentless power of Jim Brown or the versatile playmaking of Nick Chubb, these backs have paved the way for each generation of Browns football. The consistency and toughness of these players remain a cornerstone of the franchise’s proud football history.
TOP 10 LIST
10. Isaiah Crowell – 3,118 Yards
Crowell was a steady contributor during a turbulent period for the Browns. He rushed for over 600 yards in four straight seasons and brought consistency when the team needed it most.
9. Ernie Green – 3,204 Yards
Green shared the backfield with Jim Brown and later Leroy Kelly, but still made his mark. His versatility and blocking were just as valuable as his rushing yards.
8. Earnest Byner – 3,364 Yards
Byner was a key part of the Browns’ offense in the late ’80s. Known for his tough running and receiving ability, he helped Cleveland stay competitive during their AFC Championship runs.
7. Marion Motley – 4,712 Yards
A Hall of Famer and true trailblazer, Motley dominated in the 1940s and ’50s. His size and speed were ahead of his time, and he helped break racial barriers in professional football.
6. Kevin Mack – 5,123 Yards
Mack was the thunder in Cleveland’s thunder-and-lightning backfield, running with relentless power. He had a 1,000-yard Pro Bowl season in 1985 and left defenders bruised.
5. Greg Pruitt – 5,496 Yards
An electrifying runner, Pruitt made five Pro Bowls thanks to his agility and open-field vision. He brought flair to the Browns’ offense in the 1970s.
4. Mike Pruitt – 6,540 Yards
No relation to Greg, but just as impactful. Mike Pruitt was a durable workhorse in the early ’80s, piling up yardage with a no-nonsense running style.
3. Nick Chubb – 6,843 Yards (Active)
Still active and feared across the league, Chubb blends old-school power with modern burst. Injuries slowed him in 2023, but he’s still tracking toward the top of this list.
2. Leroy Kelly – 7,274 Yards
Kelly followed Jim Brown and kept the elite production rolling. A Hall of Famer in his own right, he was known for balance, vision, and explosive playmaking.
1. Jim Brown – 12,312 Yards
The greatest to ever do it. Brown led the NFL in rushing eight times in nine seasons. His legacy isn’t just a Browns record — it’s NFL history.
Ranking the 10 best career rushing yard totals in Cleveland Browns history
Top 50 Career Rushing Performances in Cleveland Browns History
This list showcases every Browns player who rushed for at least 673 career yards — from Jim Brown’s untouchable legacy to modern stars and versatile role players across generations.
| Rank | Player Name | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jim Brown | 12312 |
| 2 | Leroy Kelly | 7274 |
| 3 | Nick Chubb | 6843 |
| 4 | Mike Pruitt | 6540 |
| 5 | Greg Pruitt | 5496 |
| 6 | Kevin Mack | 5123 |
| 7 | Marion Motley | 4712 |
| 8 | Earnest Byner | 3364 |
| 9 | Ernie Green | 3204 |
| 10 | Isaiah Crowell | 3118 |
| 11 | Jamal Lewis | 2806 |
| 12 | Bobby Mitchell | 2297 |
| 13 | Cleo Miller | 2286 |
| 14 | Kareem Hunt | 2285 |
| 15 | Eric Metcalf | 2229 |
| 16 | Leroy Hoard | 2203 |
| 17 | Bo Scott | 2124 |
| 18 | William Green | 2109 |
| 19 | Reuben Droughns | 1990 |
| 20 | Dub Jones | 1910 |
| 21 | Peyton Hillis | 1764 |
| 22 | Edgar Jones | 1509 |
| 23 | Jerome Harrison | 1401 |
| 24 | Fred Morrison | 1398 |
| 25 | Jerome Ford | 1390 |
| 26 | Jamel White | 1324 |
| 27 | Duke Johnson | 1286 |
| 28 | Ken Brown | 1193 |
| 29 | Ken Carpenter | 1186 |
| 30 | Boyce Green | 1170 |
| 31 | Mike Phipps | 1155 |
| 32 | Ed Modzelewski | 1097 |
| 33 | James Jackson | 1071 |
| 34 | Tommy Vardell | 1070 |
| 35 | Trent Richardson | 1055 |
| 36 | Lee Suggs | 1048 |
| 37 | Frank Ryan | 1032 |
| 38 | Charles White | 942 |
| 39 | Maurice Bassett | 891 |
| 40 | Otto Graham | 882 |
| 41 | Hugh McKinnis | 855 |
| 42 | Preston Carpenter | 848 |
| 43 | Tim Manoa | 794 |
| 44 | Brian Sipe | 762 |
| 45 | Josh Cribbs | 753 |
| 46 | Chick Jagade | 747 |
| 47 | D’Ernest Johnson | 738 |
| 48 | Bill Boedeker | 717 |
| 49 | Ray Renfro | 682 |
| 50 | Terrance West | 673 |
Jim Brown’s dominance defines not only Cleveland’s rushing history but the entire league’s. Yet, stars like Leroy Kelly and Nick Chubb have proudly carried the torch through the decades. From Hall of Fame legends to modern bruisers, the Browns’ backfield has always been one of the NFL’s most respected — and most feared.
FAQ SECTION
Who holds the Browns record for most career rushing yards?
Jim Brown leads the Browns — and ranks among the NFL’s best — with 12,312 career rushing yards.
Is Nick Chubb still active?
Yes — Nick Chubb is active and currently 3rd all-time in Browns history with 6,843 rushing yards.
Are any Hall of Famers on this list?
Yes — Jim Brown, Leroy Kelly, and Marion Motley are all Hall of Famers who rank in the Browns’ top 10 rushing yard leaders.
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