Atlanta Falcons: Five greatest running backs of all-time

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

4. Warrick Dunn

I remember when the Falcons signed Warrick Dunn before the 2002 season, and I was not expecting to see what was about to happen. One of the best tandems seen on the football field was being formed, and would put the Falcons back on the NFL map.

During his time in Tampa Bay, he was not given the notoriety that he deserved as he became one of the few answers for the Buccaneers offense being carried by a stingy defense. Notably, Dunn is also the third best running back in Tampa Bay history with 4,986 yards. He trails the whale of the man, Mike Alstott, who erected himself as one of the best—if not the best—fullbacks of all time.

After four seasons in Florida, Dunn joined Michael Vick in Atlanta, and it was apparent that he was far from one of those question marks in Tampa Bay. The combination of Dunn and Vick was a spectacle to see; all eyes were glued to each play because one of them could hit a home run at any moment.

While the focus was on #7,  it was Dunn who benefited greatly as he amassed incredible numbers in Atlanta. The two together were something that led to the pairings of the great tandems of today’s game, such as Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch. Dunn posted 5,981 rushing yards and averaged 4.2 a carry as a Falcon.

Next: A force in the backfield