Thurman Thomas rushed for 12,074 yds on the ground in 182 games played in his career. His average when carrying the ball is 4.2 and he carried the ball 2,877 times. He’s run for 65 TD’s. Thomas ran for 66.3 yards on the ground per contest in his career.
Thomas rushed for 0.0 yards on the ground per contest. He rushed for 0 TDs in his final year for 0 yards. His YPC was 0.0 and he carried it 0 total times in his final season. Thomas accumulated 0 yards carrying the ball in 0 games played in his final season. Thurman Thomas is a name that resonates with football fans, especially those who followed the NFL during the late 80s and 90s. Known for his incredible agility, vision, and versatility on the field, Thomas left an indelible mark on the game. In this article, we’ll delve into his career, his stats, and his legacy as one of the best NFL running backs in history.
Early Life and College Career
Thurman Thomas was born on May 16, 1966, in Houston, Texas. From a young age, it was clear that Thomas had a natural talent for football. He attended Missouri City Willowridge High School, where he excelled as a football player and caught the attention of college scouts.
College Stardom at Oklahoma State
Thomas decided to attend Oklahoma State University, where he played college football with the Cowboys. His time at Oklahoma State was nothing short of remarkable. Over his college career, Thomas amassed over 4,595 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns. His impressive performance earned him the title of All-American twice, and he quickly became a standout player in college football.
Playing alongside Barry Sanders, who would also go on to become an NFL legend, Thomas helped elevate Oklahoma State’s football program to new heights. His college success set the stage for what would be an outstanding professional career in the NFL.
NFL Career and Achievements
Thurman Thomas was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the second round of the 1988 NFL Draft. From the moment he stepped onto the field, it was clear that the Bills had found a gem.
Dominance with the Buffalo Bills
Thomas quickly became a pivotal part of the Buffalo Bills’ offense. Known for his versatility, Thomas was not just a running back; he was also an effective receiver. This dual-threat capability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
During his time with the Bills, Thomas helped lead the team to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances from 1990 to 1993. Although the team did not secure a victory in these appearances, Thomas’s contributions were undeniable.
Career Highlights and Stats
Thurman Thomas’s NFL stats are a testament to his skill and consistency as a running back. Over his 13-year career, Thomas accumulated:
12,074 rushing yards
65 rushing touchdowns
472 receptions
4,458 receiving yards
23 receiving touchdowns
His ability to both run and catch the ball made him a versatile offensive weapon. Thomas was named to the Pro Bowl five times and was a First-team All-Pro three times. In 1991, he was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), highlighting his impact on the league.
Legacy and Impact
Thurman Thomas’s legacy is one of excellence and inspiration. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the sport. Thomas’s style of play has influenced countless running backs who have followed in his footsteps.
Off the Field
Beyond his football achievements, Thomas has also made significant contributions off the field. He has been involved in numerous charitable efforts and has used his platform to give back to the community. His work with the Thurman Thomas Family Foundation has helped support various causes, including education and healthcare initiatives.
Influence on Future Generations
Thomas’s influence extends beyond his playing days. He set a standard for what it means to be a complete running backone who can contribute to both the running and passing game. Young players today look up to his versatility and work ethic as they strive to make their mark in the NFL.
Conclusion
Thurman Thomas is a legendary NFL running back whose career has left an enduring legacy. With impressive stats, numerous accolades, and a Hall of Fame induction, Thomas’s impact on the game is undeniable. His versatility, skill, and dedication have cemented his place in NFL history, inspiring future generations of athletes to strive for greatness on and off the field.
In remembering Thurman Thomas, we celebrate not only his achievements as a football player but also his contributions as a community leader and role model. As fans of the sport, we honor his legacy and the indelible mark he has left on the game of football.
