Why Roger Craig Deserves a Hall of Fame Legacy as a Dual-Threat Running Back

When discussing the running backs enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Roger Craig is often overlooked or relatively underappreciated. Two primary reasons are often cited for his absence from the pantheon, yet a closer examination of his career and statistical achievements reveals a story both compelling and deserving of his rightful honor.

Prime Season Limitation

One of the most cited arguments against Roger Craig's inclusion in the Hall of Fame is the relatively short duration of his prime playing years. At age 30, he experienced a significant decline in productivity. Although he played for 11 seasons in the NFL, his peak performance, where he was regarded as one of the best, only spanned approximately five years. This limited window of high performance may have impacted his case for enshrinement, but his impact is undeniable.

Game of Its Time

Another less discussed reason is the era in which he played. Craig managed to carve out his own niche as a versatile player, integrating the roles of a traditional running back and receiver. In the 1980s, the primary focus of running backs was often viewed as rushing, with receiving serving as a secondary ability. Viewing Craig through this lens, he did not quite meet the high bar for conventional running backs, especially those who specialized in rushing. However, his versatility played a critical role in his success and impact.

Numbers and Achievements

Despite his relatively short career highlight period, Roger Craig's numbers are substantial and deserving of recognition. He participated in four Pro Bowl selections and led the NFL in all-purpose yards in a single season. In 1988, Craig won the Arthur Burkett Award as the AP Offensive Player of the Year, with an impressive 2,036 all-purpose yards, which included 1,502 rushing and 534 receiving yards. This blend of rushing and receiving productivity was rare and meritorious.

Underrated but Undeniable Impact

What's surprising is the perception that Craig's overall impact may have been underrated. In 1985, despite a significant season - he recorded 2,066 all-purpose yards (split roughly 50/50 between rushing and receiving) - he was only a second-team All-Pro, reflecting a somewhat lukewarm reception to his dual-threat talents. Despite his versatility, his numbers as a traditional rusher were lower than some of his contemporaries like Walter Payton or Marcus Allen. However, his total yards and all-purpose statistics rivaled that of the dual-threat king of the era, Eric Dickerson, who had an off-year in 1985 but still accumulated 2,000 rush yards predominantly via the ground game.

West Coast Bias

Another potential factor is geographic bias. In the pre-NFL Prime Time era, when highlight reels were not as prevalent, fewer fans and even writers on the east coast may not have fully appreciated the unique contributions of west coast players like Craig. This could have undervalued his significance, even as his playmaking skills and adaptability were crucial to his teams' success.

Ultimately, Roger Craig's legacy needs to be reassessed in light of his dual-threat versatility, matchless production, and the era in which he played. He was a formidable presence on the field, adept at both rushing and receiving, and his undeniable impact on the field speaks to his rightful place in the Hall of Fame.