The High-Stepping Dynamo

Born on July 10, 1960, Roger Craig carved a unique path through American football, leaving an indelible mark on both the college and professional levels. His journey began at the University of Nebraska, where his dynamic abilities as a runner and receiver hinted at the revolutionary player he would become. During his time as a Cornhusker (1979-1982), Craig amassed 2,446 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, also adding 16 receptions. He earned All-Big Eight honors in 1981 and was later inducted into the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in 1989, setting the stage for his groundbreaking NFL career.

✦ College Career

At Nebraska, Craig showcased his versatility in Coach Tom Osborne's I-formation offense. After a freshman year spent primarily with the freshman squad, he exploded onto the scene as a sophomore in 1980, rushing for 769 yards and 15 touchdowns. His junior year saw him eclipse the 1,000-yard mark with 1,060 yards and six touchdowns, earning All-Big Eight recognition. Even while sharing the backfield, Craig's talent was undeniable, highlighted by a still-standing school record 94-yard touchdown run.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Craig's exceptional college production and athletic prowess made him a highly sought-after prospect in the 1983 NFL Draft. The San Francisco 49ers selected him in the second round (49th overall), a move that would prove instrumental in their dynasty years. His unique blend of running power and receiving skills set him apart, hinting at the innovative role he would soon pioneer in the professional game.

✦ Football Legacy

Roger Craig's NFL legacy is defined by his groundbreaking versatility and his crucial role in the San Francisco 49ers' dominant run in the 1980s. He played 11 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the 49ers (1983-1990), followed by stints with the Los Angeles Raiders (1991) and Minnesota Vikings (1992-1993). Craig was the first player in NFL history to rush and receive for over 1,000 yards in the same season (1985), a testament to his exceptional all-around abilities. His high-knee running style became his trademark as he amassed 8,189 rushing yards, 4,911 receiving yards, and 73 total touchdowns in his career. A four-time Pro Bowler and a key member of three Super Bowl-winning teams (XIX, XXIII, XXIV), Craig revolutionized the running back position and remains a revered figure in 49ers history.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

College Accolades:

✦ First-team All-Big Eight (1981)

✦ Nebraska Football Hall of Fame (1989)

NFL Accolades & Awards:

✦ 3x Super Bowl Champion (XIX, XXIII, XXIV)

✦ NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1988)

✦ First-team All-Pro (1988)

✦ Second-team All-Pro (1985)

✦ 4x Pro Bowl (1985, 1987-1989)

✦ NFL Receptions Leader (1985)

✦ NFL 1980s All-Decade Team

San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame

✦ Career Stats (NFL):

✦ Rushing Yards: 8,189

✦ Rushing Touchdowns: 56

✦ Receptions: 566

✦ Receiving Yards: 4,911

✦ Receiving Touchdowns: 17

✦ Total Touchdowns: 73

✦ Games Played: 165