From bruising fullbacks to elusive speedsters, we're counting down the 25 best to carry the rock for the Chicago Bears. This list isn't just about stats; it's about the heart and soul of Bears football. We'll reveal the players who defined an era and confirm that the number one pick is a true legend.

We ranked 25 Best Running Backs in Chicago Bears history: No surprise at No.1

We Ranked 25 Best Running Backs in Chicago Bears History: No Surprise at No.1

John Hoffman played as a running back for the Chicago Bears from 1949 to 1956. Over his eighth-season career, he accumulated 1,366 rushing yards and 1,870 receiving yards, scoring 17 touchdowns. Hoffman earned Pro Bowl selections in 1953 and 1955, with Bears coach George Halas praising his versatility, stating he "could play about five positions.

25. John Hoffman (1949 - 1956)

A dynamic playmaker, Patterson made his mark with the Bears as both a running back and an elite return specialist. He was named First-Team All-Pro in both seasons thanks to explosive kick returns, including a 104-yard touchdown in 2020. Though his offensive role was limited, his versatility and special teams dominance cemented his legacy in Chicago.

24. Cordarrelle Patterson (2019 - 2020)

A versatile halfback, Jon Arnett joined the Bears after a stellar career with the Rams, where he earned five Pro Bowl selections. Known for his agility and quick cuts, he provided a solid offensive spark for Chicago in his final NFL seasons. In 2001, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his impact on the game.

23. Jon Arnett (1964 - 1966)

A key member of the Bears' dominant 1940s teams, Osmanski led the NFL in rushing as a rookie in 1939. He was part of four NFL Championship-winning squads, including the legendary 73-0 title game win over Washington in 1940. After his playing career, he became a respected dentist and served in the Marines during World War II.

22. Bill Osmanski (1939 - 1947)

Not to be confused with the Vikings' star of the same name, Adrian Peterson was a reliable backup for the Bears for eight seasons. He primarily contributed on special teams and as a third-down back, finishing his career in Chicago with 1,283 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. A sixth-round pick out of Georgia Southern in 2002, he carved out a steady role despite never being a feature back.

21. Adrian Peterson (2002 - 2009)

Ronnie Bull was the NFL Rookie of the Year in 1962 and a key contributor to the Bears' offense throughout the 1960s. He played both halfback and fullback, providing versatility as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. While never a superstar, Bull was a steady presence who contributed to Chicago's 1963 NFL Championship run.

20. Ronnie Bull (1962 - 1970)

A Hall of Famer known for his versatility, McAfee was a key part of the Bears' dominant teams in the 1940s. He was a dynamic runner, receiver, and returner, finishing his career with 5,313 all-purpose yards and 39 total touchdowns. His speed and playmaking ability earned him the nickname "One-Play McAfee," and his impact was so great that the NFL used his number 5 to test helmet radio communication.

19. George McAfee (1940 - 1950)

A powerful fullback, Marconi joined the Bears after a successful stint with the Rams and became a key part of their 1963 NFL Championship team. Known for his blocking ability, he helped open lanes for Chicago's rushing attack while also contributing as a runner and receiver. Over his career, he totaled 2,771 rushing yards, 1,475 receiving yards, and 35 touchdowns.

18. Joe Marconi (1962 - 1966)

Nicknamed "A-Train," Thomas made an immediate impact, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2001 after rushing for over 1,100 yards. He brought power and consistency to the Bears' backfield but never quite replicated his rookie success. After four seasons in Chicago, he moved on to play for multiple teams before retiring.

17. Anthony Thomas (2001 - 2004)

An electrifying playmaker, Cohen was a nightmare for defenders in open space with his agility and speed. He earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2018 as a return specialist while also contributing as a versatile weapon on offense. Unfortunately, injuries cut his Bears career short, leaving fans wondering what could have been.

16. Tarik Cohen (2017 - 2021)

A dynamic athlete, Morris was a rare player who excelled both as a running back and a wide receiver. He remains the Bears' all-time leader in receiving yards, proving his lasting impact on the franchise. Ranked among the best Bears wide receivers and one of the greatest players in team history, Morris left a legacy that still resonates today.

15. Johnny Morris (1958 - 1967)

A versatile fullback, Muster was a reliable offensive weapon for the Bears in both the running and passing game. He posted his best season in 1989, rushing for 664 yards and adding 47 receptions. Injuries shortened his career, but he remained a key contributor during his time in Chicago.

14. Brad Muster (1985 - 1992)

Howard burst onto the scene as a rookie, rushing for 1,313 yards in 2016—second-most in the NFL that year. He followed up with two more solid seasons, finishing his Bears career with over 3,300 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns. Though his time in Chicago was short, he remains one of the most productive backs in franchise history.

13. Jordan Howard (2016 - 2018)

A tough, physical runner, Montgomery brought consistency to the Bears' backfield, rushing for over 3,600 yards in three seasons. His 2020 campaign was his best, finishing with 1,070 rushing yards and 10 total touchdowns. Though the Bears struggled offensively, Montgomery was a bright spot, often grinding out tough yards behind an inconsistent offensive line.

12. David Montgomery (2019 - 2021)

A powerhouse fullback, Casares was the Bears' all-time leading rusher until Walter Payton shattered records. He led the NFL in rushing in 1956 with 1,126 yards and was a five-time Pro Bowler. His bruising running style helped the Bears win the 1963 NFL Championship, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise's greats.

11. Rick Casares (1955 - 1964)

A tough, dependable fullback, Harper was a key blocker for Hall of Famer Walter Payton. He rushed for over 900 yards in 1978 but was primarily known for his unselfish play and ability to open lanes. Despite a knee injury cutting his career short, he remains one of the most underrated backs in Bears history.

10. Roland Harper (1975 - 1982)

Best remembered for his inspirational story and friendship with Gale Sayers, Piccolo was a talented but undersized back. He worked his way from an undrafted free agent to a key contributor before being diagnosed with terminal cancer. His legacy lives on through the Brian Piccolo Award and the film Brian's Song.

9. Brian Piccolo (1966 - 1969)

Jones was a workhorse for the Bears, rushing for over 1,200 yards in back-to-back seasons. His tough running style helped power Chicago to Super Bowl XLI, where he had a 52-yard run against the Colts. Despite his short tenure, he remains one of the most productive backs in team history.

8. Thomas Jones (2004 - 2006)

A dynamic and elusive runner, Galimore brought a level of excitement to the Bears' backfield with his speed and agility. He played a key role in Chicago's 1963 NFL Championship season before his tragic passing in a car accident. Despite his shortened career, he remains one of the most electrifying runners in Bears history.

7. Willie Galimore (1957 - 1963)

Suhey was a dependable fullback who played a vital role in the Bears' legendary 1985 Super Bowl-winning team, primarily as a blocker for Walter Payton while also contributing as a rusher and receiver. He ranks #16 among the best Penn State Nittany Lions running backs of all time, #21 among the best white running backs in NFL history, and #35 on the greatest Chicago Bears of all time. His toughness, versatility, and unselfish play made him a fan favorite in Chicago.

6. Matt Suhey (1980 - 1989)

Anderson took over for Walter Payton and became one of the most productive running backs in Bears history, earning four Pro Bowl selections while racking up over 6,000 rushing yards. He ranks #4 among the best Florida Gators running backs of all time, #9 among the best '80s college running backs, and #22 among the best University of Florida football players of all time. His speed, vision, and versatility made him a dynamic weapon for Chicago's offense.

5. Neal Anderson (1986 - 1993)

A true football legend, Nagurski was a dominant force in the early NFL, bulldozing defenders as a fullback while also excelling as a linebacker. He ranks #5 among the best NFL players from Minnesota, #7 on the greatest Chicago Bears of all time, and #8 on the greatest Chicago Bears of all time. His bruising running style and versatility made him one of the most feared players of his era.

4. Bronko Nagurski (1930 - 1943)

Forte was the definition of a dual-threat back, racking up over 14,000 total yards in his career with the Bears. He was not only a workhorse runner but also one of the best receiving backs ever, ranking #9 among the best pass-catching running backs of all time. Off the field, he showed his softer side, landing #6 on adorable pictures of NFL players caught being dads—a rare mix of toughness and heart.

3. Matt Forte (2008 - 2015)

Sayers wasn't just a running back—he was a human highlight reel, dazzling defenses with his speed and elusiveness. Despite a short career, he left an unforgettable impact, earning the #3 spot on the greatest Chicago Bears of all time. The Kansas Comet also ranks #2 among the best NFL players from Kansas, proving his legendary status wasn't just limited to Chicago.

2. Gale Sayers (1965 - 1971)

There's no debate—Walter Payton is the greatest running back in Bears history and one of the best to play the game. "Sweetness" dominated the field with power, speed, and an unmatched work ethic, earning him the #1 spot among the best NFL running backs of all time. He's also ranked #1 on the greatest Chicago Bears of all time and #1 among the best running backs of the 80s, cementing his legacy as a true football icon.