The top five running backs in KC Chiefs history

Joe Delaney

I’ve written about Joe Delaney before and had things gone a bit differently, it’s likely he’d have a place much higher on the list of Kansas City Chiefs all-time running backs. Delaney was a very talented running back, rushing for over 1,000 yards in his only full season with the team, but he was an even better person.

The hero but also the tragic victim of the same situation, Delaney is remembered most for his heroic exploits off the field. Yet older fans know, had he a longer career with the team he might be remembered just as much for his heroic exploits on the field.

Marcus Allen

For a running back, especially one playing in the 1980s and 1990s before all of the major advances in athletic training and maintenance, Marcus Allen played a very long time. Truth be told, by the time he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, his best years were behind him. That said, he still had a bit left in the tank.

During Allen’s five seasons with the Chiefs he eclipsed 1,000 yards from scrimmage every season but the last. He ended his career with the team nearly 5,000 total yards and nearly 50 touchdowns and currently sits at seventh all-time in rushing yards in franchise history.

Ed Podolak

The high school quarterback who helmed his high school team to consecutive conference titles committed to the University of Iowa at the same position to begin his career. It wouldn’t be until his senior season with the team, after starting at quarterback for nearly two-and-a-half seasons, that Ed Podolak moved to the position that would make him famous.

Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round of the 1969 NFL Draft, Podolak’s career lacks the explosive campaigns that might bump him further up this list. That said, his longevity and consistency along with his place as the franchise’s fifth all-time leading rusher are what garner him an honorable mention.