Has a Running Back Ever Won MVP? Who Was the Last Running Back to Win MVP?
by M Nishali | Updated Dec 26, 2023
NBA Most Valuable Player Award
The NBA Most Valuable Player Award is a special honor given every year to the best basketball player of the regular season in the National Basketball Association. It started back in the 1955–56 season, and players who get this award are known for their outstanding performance and skills on the court. The award used to be called the Maurice Podoloff Trophy until 2022–23 when it changed to the Michael Jordan Trophy, named after the legendary player.
The selection process also changed over time, with NBA players voting until the 1979–80 season, and then it shifted to a group of sportswriters and broadcasters who decide the winner. The player who gets the most votes from this panel wins the MVP award.
Currently, Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers holds the title for the 2022–23 season. Notably, some basketball greats like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James have won this prestigious award multiple times, showcasing their excellence in the game.
Has a Running Back Ever Won MVP?
Yes, running backs have won the Most Valuable Player award in the NFL, but it's not very common. The MVP award is usually given to quarterbacks, who play a crucial role in leading their teams. The last time a running back won the MVP was in 2012 when Adrian Peterson achieved this honor.
Peterson had an outstanding season, coming back from a torn ACL and recording the second-highest rushing yards in NFL history. While it is possible for running backs to win the MVP, the focus in recent years has shifted more towards quarterbacks, who have dominated the award due to their significant impact on the game.
Uncover the world of sports through the engaging sports articles on Fresherslive, where you can read about scores, player profiles, and intriguing game analyses, all at your fingertips.
Who Was The Last Running Back to Win MVP?
The most recent running back to win the NFL MVP award was Adrian Peterson in the year 2012. Adrian Peterson had an outstanding season with the Minnesota Vikings, coming back from a serious knee injury the previous year.
In 2012, Peterson rushed for 2,097 yards, which is the second-highest single-season rushing total in NFL history. His remarkable performance and impact on the Vikings' success led to him being recognized as the league's most valuable player for that season.
Since then, quarterbacks have primarily dominated the MVP awards, making Peterson's achievement as a running back stand out in recent years. Despite the rarity of running backs winning the MVP, Peterson's exceptional season remains a testament to the position's capability to make a significant impact on the game.
How Many Running Backs Have Won MVP?
In the history of the NFL, only two running backs have won the prestigious Most Valuable Player award. The first running back to achieve this honor was Jim Brown in 1957. Brown, playing for the Cleveland Browns, showcased exceptional skills and dominance on the field, earning him the title of MVP.
The second running back to claim the MVP title was Adrian Peterson in 2012. Peterson, a Minnesota Vikings player, had a remarkable season, nearly breaking the single-season rushing record, and his outstanding performance led to him being recognized as the league's Most Valuable Player.
While quarterbacks often dominate the MVP conversation, these two running backs managed to make a lasting impact and stand out among the NFL's elite players. Their achievements serve as a reminder of the significant contributions running backs can make to the success of their teams.
Has A Running Back Ever Won MVP - FAQs
Yes, running backs have won the NFL MVP.
The most recent running back to win the NFL MVP was Adrian Peterson in 2012.
In the history of the NFL, only two running backs have won the MVP.
Jim Brown, the first running back to win the MVP, achieved this honor in 1957.
Quarterbacks often win the MVP due to their crucial role and significant impact on leading their teams.