Eric Dickerson

Eric Dickerson – Life, Career & Notable Quotes

Learn about Eric Dickerson — American NFL legend, record-setting running back. Explore his early life, breakthrough seasons, legacy, and his own words that reflect his mindset.

Introduction

Eric Demetric Dickerson (born September 2, 1960) is a former American professional football running back, widely regarded as one of the greatest ever at his position. Over an 11-season NFL career, he became best known for his graceful running style, record-setting 2,105 rushing yards in a single season (1984), and his tenacity in overcoming obstacles on and off the field. His legacy endures in statistics, Hall of Fame honors, and the respect of football fans and players alike.

Early Life and Family

Eric Dickerson was born in Sealy, Texas. Sealy High School, where he showed tremendous athletic ability, especially in track and football.

Dickerson then played college football at Southern Methodist University (SMU) from 1979 to 1982. unanimous All-American honors in 1982.

His decision to attend SMU was influenced by his great-grandaunt, who persuaded him to stay in Texas, though later in life Dickerson admitted to controversy over whether boosters gave him benefits.

Professional Career & Achievements

Entering the NFL & Early Success

• Dickerson was selected 2nd overall in the 1983 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams.

• In his rookie season, he set the then-rookie rushing yardage record with 1,808 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns. NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Peak & Record Season

• In 1984, Dickerson rushed for 2,105 yards, setting the NFL’s single-season rushing record, which still stands.

• In that same season, he had 12 games with 100+ rushing yards.

Later Years & Team Moves

• Dickerson continued to be a dominant force, leading the league in rushing yards multiple times (1983, 1984, 1986, 1988).

• He played for several teams: after the Rams, he suited up for the Indianapolis Colts, then had stints with the Los Angeles Raiders and finally the Atlanta Falcons.

• As his career progressed, injuries and shared backfields affected his usage and output.

• He officially retired in 1993 after a final period with Atlanta.

Career Totals & Honors

• Career rushing yards: 13,259

• Rushing touchdowns: 90

• Receptions: 281 catches for 2,137 yards, 6 receiving touchdowns

• He was a 6× Pro Bowl selection and 5× First-team All-Pro.

• In 1999, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

• His No. 29 jersey is retired by the Rams.

After his playing career, Dickerson took roles in broadcasting (e.g. sideline reporter on Monday Night Football) and business ventures including sports memorabilia and online sports retail.

Legacy and Influence

• Record-setting benchmark: His 2,105-yard season remains a golden standard for running backs.

• Style & grace: His upright, fluid running form contrasted with the brute power style of many backs; he ran with elegance and vision.

• Durability & early excellence: From his very first seasons, he sustained high-level performance.

• Bridge between eras: He played in a transition period of the NFL, as passing games rose and running backs’ roles shifted.

• Mentor & voice: Through commentary and public presence, he has influenced later generations.

Personality, Values & Mindset

Eric Dickerson has often expressed that he is a private person who preferred to let performance speak. Some insights into his outlook come through his quotes.

He has spoken candidly about the physical toll the game takes, the business realities of professional sports, and the motivations that pushed him.

Famous Quotes by Eric Dickerson

Here are several notable quotes attributed to him:

• “I run upright mostly when I see daylight, so if you watch film you’ll see I don’t get hit in the chest much.”

• “When they have their hands on their knees, that’s when they’re tired.”

• “She told me I wasn’t playing for the coach, I was playing for myself.”

• “In the NFL they talk about ‘contracts,’ but it’s not really a contract, it’s a one year agreement. If you have a 10 year contract, it means nothing. If you get cut in the NFL, you get nothing.”

• “I’d love to be in the Hall of Fame one day and win Super Bowl rings, or even one … and stay healthy.”

• “I was raised by my great-great aunt. I was adopted within our family. My mother had me when she was, I think, 15, 16. They tried to get her to have an abortion and she refused. So my ‘mama’ adopted me …”

• “Them sportswriters don’t even know how to put uniforms on, most of ’em.”

• “Running is so natural to me. When I was running track, people used to ask me, ‘When are you gonna start running hard?’ … Man, I love to run!”

These quotes reveal a player who combined introspection, skepticism of fame, and deep respect for the craft of his sport.

Lessons from Eric Dickerson

1. Peak performance can come early — He broke records and made Hall of Fame credentials in early seasons.

2. Form and consistency matter — His running style and vision were as critical to success as raw power.

3. Understand the business side — His quotes about contracts highlight the fragility inherent in professional sports.

4. Resilience through adversity — He faced team changes, injuries, and evolving offensive schemes, yet remained impactful.

5. Let humility accompany excellence — Though dominating, Dickerson often emphasized discipline, internal motivation, and self-defined purpose.

Conclusion

Eric Dickerson’s career stands as a testament to how talent, work ethic, and self-belief can push boundaries in sports. His 2,105-yard season remains legendary; his consistency over more than a decade cements his status. Beyond statistics, his words offer a window into how a champion thinks, copes, and views legacy. Through quoting his reflections, we glimpse the inner life of a man who ran not just to win games, but to define standards.