Running backs are often the flashiest guys on the field. They celebrate big runs like they just solved world peace, and when they’re not getting touches, you better believe they’re letting someone know about it.
Some of these guys were legends, others were just loud. But all of them had a little extra swagger—whether it was deserved or not. Here are the 20 most egotistical running backs ever to carry the rock.
20. Reggie Bush
Reggie always carried himself like a superstar, even when his NFL career didn’t quite live up to the hype. From the Hollywood lifestyle to the Heisman drama, he was never short on confidence.
19. Tiki Barber
Tiki had no problem calling out teammates and coaches while still playing, and even more once he hit the broadcast booth. He believed in his brand more than most.
18. Ezekiel Elliott
From the crop-top draft outfit to his constant feed-me gestures, Zeke made sure the spotlight was always somewhere nearby. He never doubted he was the main attraction.
17. Ricky Williams
Ricky was a one-man vibe check. Whether it was his unpredictable behavior or walking away from the game entirely, he made it clear he followed his own path—no matter what anyone thought.
16. Trent Richardson
He might not have had the career to back it up, but early on Trent carried himself like he was the next big thing. Unfortunately, the ego far outlasted the production.
15. Brian Westbrook
He was one of the most underrated talents of his era, but he didn’t seem to think so—he made sure to let people know just how valuable he was. Quiet swagger, but plenty of it.
14. Jamaal Charles
Jamaal was fast and knew it, often reminding folks that he was the most efficient back in league history. He didn’t mind gassing himself up at every opportunity.
13. Cadillac Williams
Cadillac came in with a flashy nickname and the swagger to match. Even when injuries slowed him down, he still held himself like a star.
12. Melvin Gordon
He talked like a top-five back long after teams stopped treating him like one. You’ve got to admire the confidence, even if the numbers didn’t always justify it.
11. Jamal Lewis
Jamal had that old-school bruiser attitude but was never shy about putting himself above the team. He expected to be fed the ball, period.
10. Fred Taylor
Fred spent years talking about being overlooked, and while he had a point, he didn’t mind turning up the ego to make it. He had Hall of Fame talent—and he made sure people heard about it.
9. Marshawn Lynch
Beast Mode wasn’t just a nickname—it was a whole persona. He may have avoided interviews, but his on-field confidence and off-field brand-building were next-level.
8. Clinton Portis
Portis brought flair with every carry—and every press conference. Between the wild alter egos and bold takes, he was always his own biggest fan.
7. Chris Johnson
CJ2K let the world know exactly how fast and elite he was. Even years later, he’s still reminding everyone of that 2,000-yard season.
6. Ricky Watters
He once famously said, “For who? For what?” and that pretty much sums up the vibe. Watters always prioritized himself—and he didn’t care if anyone had a problem with it.
5. LaDainian Tomlinson
One of the greatest to ever do it, but never short on self-belief. Between the sideline tantrums and playoff posturing, LT carried a chip—and a whole lot of ego.
4. Adrian Peterson
AP ran like a man on a mission and talked like one too. He saw himself as the best, and didn’t care who disagreed.
3. Le’Veon Bell
Le’Veon made his contract disputes into a full-blown saga. He always believed his value was higher than what anyone offered—and said it every chance he got.
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2. Terrell Davis
TD had that Denver glow and wasn’t afraid to lean into it. Even as a seventh-rounder, he played and talked like a first-ballot Hall of Famer from the jump.
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1. Emmitt Smith
The NFL’s all-time leading rusher never lacked confidence—and he wasn’t afraid to remind everyone of his greatness. Whether on the field or behind a mic, Emmitt always put Emmitt first.
