Earl Campbell Biography

Earl Christian Campbell, born on March 29, 1955, was a professional American football running back who played in the NFL for eight seasons, primarily with the Houston Oilers. He was recognized for his powerful running style and ability to break tackles, establishing himself as one of the top power running backs in NFL history. Campbell played college football for the Texas Longhorns, winning the Heisman Trophy and earning unanimous All-American honors during his senior year. Selected first overall by the Oilers in the 1978 NFL draft, he made an immediate impact and was awarded NFL Rookie of the Year. During his first three seasons, he was named the NFL's Offensive Player of the Year and averaged nearly 1,700 rushing yards per season. In 1979, he won the AP NFL Most Valuable Player Award after leading the league in rushing yards and touchdowns. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991.