Two former Alabama running backs dominated the NFL’s all-purpose yardage leaderboard in 2024: Derrick Henry racked up 2,114 yards for the Ravens, while Jahmyr Gibbs totaled 1,929 yards with the Lions, both trailing only Saquon Barkley’s 2,283 yards.
But who tops the career list for NFL players with Alabama football roots? All-purpose yards include rushing, receiving, and special teams return yards, showcasing versatile playmakers.
No one exemplifies this better than former Auburn star James Brooks. Across 12 NFL seasons, Brooks amassed 7,962 rushing yards, 3,621 receiving yards, 2,762 kickoff return yards, and 565 punt return yards—making him the only player in NFL history with at least 7,500 rushing, 3,500 receiving, 2,500 kickoff return, and 500 punt return yards.
Meanwhile, former Alabama receiver Julio Jones and West Alabama standout Tyreek Hill also rank high, with Hill unique among active players for combining 10,000+ receiving yards with 1,000+ punt-return yards.
Here’s a look at the top 10 NFL players with Alabama football ties by career all-purpose yards:
1️⃣ Terrell Owens (Benjamin Russell HS) – 16,276 yards
2️⃣ James Brooks (Auburn) – 14,910 yards
3️⃣ Julio Jones (Foley HS, Alabama) – 13,884 yards
4️⃣ Tyreek Hill (West Alabama) – 13,397 yards
5️⃣ Derrick Henry (Alabama) – 13,068 yards
6️⃣ Shaun Alexander (Alabama) – 10,981 yards
7️⃣ Roddy White (UAB) – 10,882 yards
8️⃣ Mark Ingram (Alabama) – 10,237 yards
9️⃣ Amari Cooper (Alabama) – 10,068 yards
🔟 Stephen Davis (Auburn) – 9,608 yards
These players have not only represented Alabama roots with pride but have also left a massive mark on the NFL record books through their versatility and longevity.
“Alabama’s Best: Ranking Crimson Tide & State Stars by NFL All-Purpose Yards”
