Young averaged 28.0 yards on the ground per game in his NFL career. He has run for 23 TD’s. His average yards per carry sits at 3.6 and he carried the ball 1,011 different times. Rickey Young ran for 3,666 yards on the ground in 131 games played in his career.
Young carried the ball 0 times for an average of 0.0 YPC. In his 0 games in his last season, Rickey Young rushed for 0.0 yds per game and got into the endzone 0 different times while carrying the ball. His longest run that season was 0 yds. In the storied history of the National Football League (NFL), many players have left an indelible mark on the game. One such player is Rickey Young, a name that might not immediately come to mind but deserves recognition for his contributions on the field. As an NFL running back, Young’s career was characterized by his versatility, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure. This article delves into the journey of Rickey Young, exploring his impact on the NFL and his place among the league’s notable running backs.
Early Life and College Career
Rickey Young was born on December 6, 1953, in Mobile, Alabama. Growing up, Young displayed remarkable athletic talent, which paved the way for his future in football. He attended Jackson State University, a historically black university with a strong football tradition. At Jackson State, Young honed his skills and developed into a formidable running back.
During his college career, Young showcased his ability to both run and catch the ball, making him a dual-threat player. His impressive performances caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 1975, he was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.
NFL Career and Impact
San Diego Chargers Era
Rickey Young began his professional career with the San Diego Chargers, where he quickly made an impact. His versatility as a running back allowed him to contribute in various ways, whether it was rushing, receiving, or blocking. Young’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield was particularly noteworthy, as it added a new dimension to the Chargers’ offense.
During his time with the Chargers, Young consistently delivered solid performances, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches. Although the Chargers did not achieve significant success during his tenure, Young’s contributions did not go unnoticed.
Minnesota Vikings Years
In 1978, Rickey Young was traded to the Minnesota Vikings, a move that would define his NFL career. It was with the Vikings that Young truly shone, establishing himself as one of the league’s most reliable running backs. Under head coach Bud Grant, Young became an integral part of the Vikings’ offense.
Young’s ability to catch the ball out of the backfield was a perfect fit for the Vikings’ offensive scheme. In 1978, he set an NFL record for most receptions by a running back in a single season, with an astounding 88 catches. This achievement not only showcased his skills but also highlighted his role as a key playmaker for the Vikings.
Consistency and Versatility
Throughout his career, Rickey Young was known for his consistency and versatility. He was a player who could be relied upon to perform at a high level, game after game. Whether it was rushing for yards, catching passes, or blocking for his teammates, Young did it all with precision and poise.
His ability to adapt to different roles made him a valuable asset to any team. Young’s versatility was not only a testament to his skill set but also to his work ethic and dedication to the game. He was a player who understood the importance of being well-rounded and was always willing to do whatever it took to help his team succeed.
Legacy and Recognition
Contribution to the Game
Rickey Young’s contributions to the game of football go beyond just statistics. He was a pioneer in demonstrating the importance of a running back who could excel in both rushing and receiving. His record-setting season with the Vikings paved the way for future running backs to embrace a similar dual-threat role.
Young’s impact on the game is evident in the way modern NFL offenses operate. Today, many of the league’s top running backs are expected to contribute not just on the ground, but also as pass catchers. Young’s success helped shape this evolution, making him a trailblazer in the sport.
Remembering Rickey Young
Although Rickey Young may not be as well-known as some of his contemporaries, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who remember his contributions to the game. Young’s career serves as a reminder of the importance of versatility and consistency in achieving success in the NFL.
His story is one of dedication, perseverance, and a love for the game. Young’s journey from a small college to becoming a record-setting NFL running back is an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. His name may not be at the top of the list of NFL rushing leaders, but his impact on the game is undeniable.
Conclusion
Rickey Young’s career as an NFL running back is a testament to the power of versatility and hard work. His ability to excel both as a rusher and receiver made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for and left a lasting impact on the league. Young’s record-setting performances and commitment to his craft continue to inspire future generations of football players.
As we look back on the history of the NFL, it’s important to remember players like Rickey Young, who may not have received the same level of recognition as some of their peers but whose contributions to the game are truly significant. His legacy serves as a reminder that greatness in football is not just about statistics, but also about the impact a player has on the game and the lives they touch along the way.