Most Career Rushing Yards by a Los Angeles Chargers Player
The Los Angeles Chargers may be known for their explosive air attack, but their rushing game has been just as pivotal in the franchise’s history. Leading the charge is LaDainian Tomlinson, whose 12,490 rushing yards set a franchise record and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game. His dominance on the field — highlighted by his MVP season and ability to break records — sets the gold standard for all Chargers running backs.
But Tomlinson is just one chapter in the Chargers’ rich rushing history. From the tough, bruising style of Marion Butts to the modern versatility of Austin Ekeler, the Chargers’ backfield has always featured backs who could move the chains and take over games. Whether it was Melvin Gordon’s explosive runs or Ryan Mathews’ efficient play, the list of all-time rushing leaders for the Chargers is full of talent that defined multiple eras of football.
This list not only highlights the stars but also gives credit to unsung heroes like Natrone Means and Chuck Muncie, whose contributions were critical to the team’s success. While quarterbacks may get most of the attention, these running backs have left their own indelible mark on Chargers history.
TOP 10 LIST
10. Keith Lincoln – 2,698 Yards
Lincoln was one of the original stars of the AFL era, helping establish the Chargers’ ground game in the 1960s.
9. Don Woods – 2,858 Yards
A flash in the mid-70s, Woods made the most of his opportunities with a couple of strong seasons and nearly 3,000 rushing yards.
8. Chuck Muncie – 3,309 Yards
One of the more unique backs of his time, Muncie combined power and agility in the early ’80s for San Diego.
7. Natrone Means – 3,885 Yards
A bulldozer with deceptive speed, Means powered the Chargers to a Super Bowl appearance in the ’94 season.
6. Ryan Mathews – 4,061 Yards
When healthy, Mathews was explosive and efficient. He cracked 1,000 yards twice and remains in the top 10 all-time.
5. Melvin Gordon – 4,240 Yards
A touchdown machine in his prime, Gordon delivered big plays and multiple strong seasons in powder blue.
4. Marion Butts – 4,297 Yards
Known for his bruising style, Butts was a workhorse in the early ’90s and piled up over 4,000 yards.
3. Austin Ekeler – 4,355 Yards
One of the most versatile backs in the modern NFL, Ekeler’s blend of rushing and receiving has been invaluable to the Chargers.
2. Paul Lowe – 4,972 Yards
A legend of the AFL years, Lowe brought big plays and consistency to the early Chargers squads.
1. LaDainian Tomlinson – 12,490 Yards
One of the greatest to ever do it. Tomlinson dominated the 2000s, setting records, winning an MVP, and becoming a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He’s the gold standard of Chargers football.
From LaDainian Tomlinson to Paul Lowe, here are the Chargers’ all-time rushing leaders
Top 50 Career Rushing Performances in Chargers History
This list includes every Chargers player to rush for 476 or more yards in their career — from Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson to dual-threat quarterbacks like Justin Herbert.
| Rank | Player Name | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | LaDainian Tomlinson | 12490 |
| 2 | Paul Lowe | 4972 |
| 3 | Austin Ekeler | 4355 |
| 4 | Marion Butts | 4297 |
| 5 | Melvin Gordon | 4240 |
| 6 | Ryan Mathews | 4061 |
| 7 | Natrone Means | 3885 |
| 8 | Chuck Muncie | 3309 |
| 9 | Don Woods | 2858 |
| 10 | Keith Lincoln | 2698 |
| 11 | Dickie Post | 2519 |
| 12 | Gary Anderson | 2250 |
| 13 | Mike Garrett | 2235 |
| 14 | Rod Bernstine | 2007 |
| 15 | Rickey Young | 1922 |
| 16 | Terrell Fletcher | 1871 |
| 17 | Tim Spencer | 1792 |
| 18 | Ronnie Harmon | 1639 |
| 19 | Gene Foster | 1613 |
| 20 | Cid Edwards | 1549 |
| 21 | James Brooks | 1471 |
| 22 | Mike Tolbert | 1410 |
| 23 | Bo Matthews | 1372 |
| 24 | Clarence Williams | 1327 |
| 25 | Brad Hubbert | 1270 |
| 26 | Michael Turner | 1257 |
| 27 | Earnest Jackson | 1218 |
| 28 | Justin Herbert | 1217 |
| 29 | Darren Sproles | 1154 |
| 30 | Joshua Kelley | 1148 |
| 31 | Lionel James | 1062 |
| 32 | Justin Jackson | 1040 |
| 33 | Lydell Mitchell | 1031 |
| 34 | John Hadl | 1013 |
| 35 | Gary Brown | 945 |
| 36 | Danny Woodhead | 919 |
| 37 | Russ Smith | 915 |
| 38 | Curtis Adams | 907 |
| 39 | J.K. Dobbins | 905 |
| 40 | Mike Thomas | 837 |
| 41 | Branden Oliver | 773 |
| 42 | Jermaine Fazande | 733 |
| 43 | Leonard Russell | 713 |
| 44 | Eric Bieniemy | 711 |
| 45 | John Cappelletti | 705 |
| 46 | Aaron Hayden | 636 |
| 47 | Philip Rivers | 609 |
| 48 | Buford McGee | 594 |
| 49 | Jeff Queen | 579 |
| 50 | Dan Fouts | 476 |
Though often overshadowed by their quarterbacks, the Chargers’ running backs have quietly carved out a proud legacy. From LaDainian Tomlinson’s greatness to Austin Ekeler’s modern versatility, the Bolts have always had a threat in the backfield. The names on this list have helped define eras of Chargers football — and their stats speak for themselves.
FAQ SECTION
Who has the most rushing yards in Chargers history?
LaDainian Tomlinson leads the franchise with 12,490 career rushing yards.
Where does Austin Ekeler rank among Chargers rushers?
Ekeler ranks 3rd all-time in Chargers history with 4,355 rushing yards.
How many Chargers backs have rushed for over 4,000 yards?
Seven players have topped 4,000 rushing yards, including Melvin Gordon and Ryan Mathews.
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