Is the NFL Fullback an Endangered Species?

March 17, 2010   ·   Jay Dee   ·   Jump to comments

Where have all the fullbacks gone?
The days of 250 pounds, shoulders square, and a bad attitude running down hill are just about over.
One of my fondest memories as a child was watching Mark Van Eeghen (pictured) receive a hand off from Jim Plunkett and turn a simple dive play into a hard fought, eight yard touchdown. I fear that my son will never get to see that.
There was a time when all the great runners were fullbacks. Larry Csonka, Franco Harris, John Riggins and the Raiders' Mark Van Eeghen were all listed on their team roster as fullbacks. They all led their respective teams in attempts and yards multiple times while they played.
History lesson:
1977 saw Raider fan favorite Mark Van Eeghen get called upon for 324 carries and 15 receptions totalling 1,378 yards and seven touchdowns.
In 1983, Hall of Famer John Riggins toted the rock 375 times and added five receptions totalling 1,476 yards from scrimmage and tallied 24 touchdowns for the Washingto...

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