Most Career Rushing Yards by an Atlanta Falcons Player

Explore the Top 10 Rushing Performances in Atlanta Falcons History, Featuring Ground-and-Pound Legends and Modern Stars.

by SOG Sports

Most Career Rushing Yards by an Atlanta Falcons Player

While the Atlanta Falcons have often been known for their high-powered offenses and aerial assaults, their rushing attack has quietly made its mark. Gerald Riggs may hold the title as the franchise’s all-time rushing king with 6,631 yards, but he’s got plenty of company from tough, hard-nosed runners like Michael Turner and dynamic playmakers like Michael Vick. And let’s not forget the impressive young talent like Bijan Robinson, who’s already on the rise.

This list is not just about the top yardage; it’s about the physicality and legacy of the Falcons’ ground game, a history built on bruising runs, memorable performances, and players who have left a lasting impact.


TOP 10 LIST

10. Bijan Robinson – 2,432 Yards
It’s early, but Bijan has already flashed elite ability. With smooth vision, burst, and pass-catching skills, he’s the most exciting young back Atlanta has had in years.

9. Haskel Stanback – 2,662 Yards
A reliable option in the mid-70s, Stanback brought a physical edge and solid production to a team that relied heavily on the run.

8. Dave Hampton – 3,482 Yards
Hampton finally broke the 1,000-yard barrier in 1975 after coming painfully close several times. His persistence made him a fan favorite — and a Falcons legend.

7. Michael Vick – 3,859 Yards
Yes, a quarterback. Vick redefined the position with blazing speed and highlight-reel jukes. He’s still one of the most electric runners the league has ever seen — regardless of position.

6. Devonta Freeman – 3,972 Yards
Freeman was the engine of the Falcons’ Super Bowl offense in 2016. His shiftiness and versatility made him a perfect fit in Kyle Shanahan’s system.

5. Jamal Anderson – 5,336 Yards
Dirty Bird icon. Anderson powered Atlanta’s 1998 Super Bowl run with a massive 1,846-yard season. His physicality set the tone for that late-‘90s squad.

4. Warrick Dunn – 5,981 Yards
Dunn brought consistency and leadership to the Falcons backfield after a strong career in Tampa. His agility and professionalism kept him productive well into his 30s.

3. William Andrews – 5,986 Yards
Before injuries derailed his career, Andrews was a monster — a dual-threat beast who could run through and around defenders. He still ranks third all-time despite a short career.

2. Michael Turner – 6,081 Yards
Turner the Burner brought thunder to the Falcons offense with his power-running style. He had two 1,300+ yard seasons and was nearly unstoppable inside the red zone.

1. Gerald Riggs – 6,631 Yards
The franchise rushing king. Riggs was as durable as he was dominant, piling up yards year after year. His mix of speed, strength, and vision made him the gold standard in Atlanta.

Top 10 most career rushing yards by an Atlanta Falcons player

Ranking the 10 best career rushing yard totals in Atlanta Falcons history


Top 50 Career Rushing Performances in Atlanta Falcons History

This list highlights every Falcons player who rushed for at least 397 career yards — from Gerald Riggs’ franchise dominance to explosive runners who made the most of their time in Atlanta.

RankPlayer NameRushing Yards
1Gerald Riggs6631
2Michael Turner6081
3William Andrews5986
4Warrick Dunn5981
5Jamal Anderson5336
6Devonta Freeman3972
7Michael Vick3859
8Dave Hampton3482
9Haskel Stanback2662
10Bijan Robinson2432
11Tyler Allgeier2362
12Tevin Coleman2340
13Lynn Cain2263
14Cannonball Butler2250
15Craig Heyward2183
16T.J. Duckett2175
17Art Malone2118
18Jerious Norwood1995
19Erric Pegram1981
20John Settle1801
21Junior Coffey1612
22Bubba Bean1528
23Cordarrelle Patterson1494
24Steve Broussard1472
25Matt Ryan1469
26Jason Snelling1420
27Harmon Wages1321
28Steven Jackson1250
29Jacquizz Rodgers1116
30Mike Rozier1036
31Brian Hill945
32Woody Thompson877
33Maurice Smith829
34Keith Jones791
35Byron Hanspard718
36David Archer691
37Ito Smith689
38Todd Gurley678
39Bob Christian625
40Eddie Ray607
41Chris Miller607
42Mike Davis503
43Ken Oxendine502
44Ernie Wheelwright501
45Chris Chandler480
46Paul Gipson480
47Randy Johnson459
48Mike Esposito439
49Marcus Mariota438
50Cliff Austin397

Gerald Riggs still wears the crown, but younger backs like Bijan Robinson are gaining ground fast. This list proves that Atlanta has always had a nasty ground game — whether it was flashy like Vick or old-school like Turner. The Falcons’ rushing legacy is filled with punishing runs, breakout seasons, and unforgettable highlights.


FAQ SECTION

Who holds the Falcons record for most career rushing yards?
Gerald Riggs leads the franchise with 6,631 career rushing yards.

Is Bijan Robinson already in the top 10?
Yes — Bijan ranks 10th all-time with 2,432 rushing yards and is still just getting started.

Are any quarterbacks on this list?
Yes — Michael Vick is the only quarterback to crack the top 10, with 3,859 rushing yards.

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