Marcus Allen
Running Back
Career 1993-1997
Marcus Allen's career was a series of ups and downs. A highly recruited Parade All-America high school star, he chose to attend the University of Southern California, famous for its award winning tailbacks. But, in his first two seasons, he served mostly as a blocking fullback for 1979 Heisman Trophy winner Charles White. Returned to tailback as a junior, he set 15 NCAA records and won the Heisman himself as a senior in 1981.
The tenth player chosen in the 1982 NFL draft, Allen broke in with the Raiders by leading the league in touchdowns and earning rookie-of-the-year honors. In 1983, he helped take the Raiders to a Super Bowl where he was named MVP, rushing for 191 yards, including a brilliant 74-yard run that cemented the Raiders' win in XVIII. Two years later, he led the NFL in rushing with 1,759 yards and was named player of the year.
Then things began to go sour for Allen. He found himself sharing running time with other backs. When Bo Jackson arrived in midseason of 1987, Allen went into further eclipse.
For the next couple of seasons, Allen found himself shoved aside when Jackson finished his baseball commitment and joined the team. Even when Jackson's career was terminated by an injury, Allen was used sparingly.
At age 33, Allen signed with Kansas City, where he made a remarkable turnaround to become his team's featured back. He retired in 1997 as the all-time leader with 123 rushing touchdowns and his 587 catches are the most receptions by a running back.
Given up for dead by the Raiders, Marcus Allen came to Kansas City and not only revived his career, but flourished. He was also a big part of the Chiefs' success, leading the team to the playoffs four of the five seasons he played for Kansas City.
Marcus meant victories. He scored more touchdowns rushing during his tenure with the Chiefs than any back in Kansas City had before him. He was incredibly consistent when it came to gaining first downs or touchdowns in short yardage situations, and his blocking skills, unselfish play and leadership qualities were a big reason why the Chiefs won 55 games with him on the field.
