Hampton averaged 48.8 yds on the ground per contest in his career. He has run for 25 touchdowns. His average yards per carry sits at 4.0 and he carried it 1,148 total times. Dave Hampton rushed for 4,536 yds on the ground in 93 games played in his career.
Hampton rushed for 0.0 yds on the ground per contest. He rushed for 0 TDs in his last year for 0 yds. His average yards per carry sat at 0.0 and he toted the ball 0 total times in his last season. Hampton accumulated 0 yards on the ground in 0 games played in his last season. The world of professional football is full of legendary figures who have left their mark on the game. One such figure is Dave Hampton, an NFL running back who played during the 1970s. Known for his speed and agility, Hampton made significant contributions to the teams he played for and carved out a unique place in NFL history.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Dave Hampton was born on May 7, 1947, in Akron, Ohio. From a young age, he showed a passion for sports, particularly football. He attended the University of Wyoming, where he played college football and developed his skills as a running back. His college career was impressive enough to catch the attention of NFL scouts.
Entering the NFL
In 1969, Dave Hampton was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the ninth round of the NFL Draft. Although he started his professional career with the Packers, it was not long before he made a significant impact in the league.
NFL Career Highlights
During his NFL career, Dave Hampton played for several teams, including the Green Bay Packers, Atlanta Falcons, and Philadelphia Eagles. Each team benefited from his exceptional abilities as a running back. Here are some highlights from his career:
Green Bay Packers
Hampton’s time with the Packers was relatively short, but he made the most of it by demonstrating his abilities on the field. His performance caught the eye of the Atlanta Falcons, who traded for him in 1972.
Atlanta Falcons
It was with the Falcons that Hampton truly shined. In his first season with the team, he became the first player in franchise history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. This achievement set a new standard for the Falcons and established Hampton as one of the top running backs in the league.
Philadelphia Eagles
Hampton later joined the Philadelphia Eagles, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a reliable and talented running back. Although his time with the Eagles was not as prolific as with the Falcons, he remained a valuable asset to the team.
Chasing NFL Rushing Records
Throughout his career, Dave Hampton was known for his pursuit of NFL rushing records. His dedication and hard work paid off when he became the first player in Falcons history to rush for 1,000 yards in a season. This accomplishment was not only a personal victory but also a milestone for the team.
The 1,000-Yard Mark
Reaching 1,000 rushing yards in a single season is a significant achievement for any NFL running back. For Hampton, this milestone was a testament to his skill and determination. It also set a benchmark for future Falcons players to aspire to.
Near-Misses and Perseverance
Despite reaching the 1,000-yard mark, Hampton’s career was not without its challenges. In the 1973 season, he fell just three yards short of repeating his 1,000-yard performance. However, his perseverance and determination remained unwavering, and he continued to strive for excellence on the field.
Life After Football
After retiring from professional football, Dave Hampton transitioned to life outside the NFL. He took on various roles, including working as a motivational speaker and engaging in community service. His experiences as an NFL running back provided valuable lessons that he shared with others.
Motivational Speaking
Hampton’s career in the NFL gave him unique insights into the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and dedication. As a motivational speaker, he shared these lessons with audiences, inspiring them to pursue their goals with the same determination he showed on the field.
Community Involvement
In addition to his speaking engagements, Hampton remained active in his community. He participated in various charitable events and initiatives, using his platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Legacy and Impact
Dave Hampton’s contributions to the NFL and his community have left a lasting legacy. His achievements as a running back continue to inspire current and future players, while his dedication to helping others serves as a model for athletes transitioning to life after sports.
Influence on Future Players
Hampton’s success in reaching the 1,000-yard milestone set a precedent for future running backs. His determination and work ethic continue to be a source of inspiration for players striving to achieve similar success.
A Role Model for Athletes
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Hampton’s commitment to community service and personal growth make him a role model for athletes at all levels. His story demonstrates the importance of perseverance and the impact that athletes can have both on and off the field.
Conclusion
Dave Hampton’s career as an NFL running back is a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for the game. His achievements on the field, combined with his contributions off the field, have left a lasting impact on the world of professional football and beyond. As we celebrate his legacy, we are reminded of the power of perseverance and the potential to inspire others through our actions.
