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Greatest NFL Running Backs of All Time
LaDainian Tomlinson or Walter Payton

Pick Your Favorite

LADAINIAN TOMLINSON

VS

WALTER PAYTON
0%

Your GOAT List

Why This Battle Matters

What happens when unyielding power meets unparalleled agility? In the clash between Walter Payton and LaDainian Tomlinson, we're witnessing more than just a battle of statistics; it's a riveting debate over the soul of football's running game. Payton, with his notorious 'never die easy' ethos, brought brute force and resilience, painting every game with the broad strokes of his indomitable spirit. Contrastingly, Tomlinson, a maestro of versatility, turned the field into a stage for his balletic prowess and scoring acumen. This isn't merely about who ranks higher; it's about what defines the essence of a great running back. Do we value the relentless warrior or the graceful tactician? Your choice narrates the legacy.

🔥 Fan Takes

Honestly, both are legends but I lean towards Payton. Dude had moves and style that LT just never matched up to.
lol remember when everyone thought LT was gonna be the best ever? nostalgia is a liar sometimes 😂
Walter Payton is the GOAT, period. LT doesn't even come close, fight me.

How Fans Are Voting

In this battle:

Fans currently prefer Walter Payton over LaDainian Tomlinson when it comes to the greatest NFL Running Backs of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Walter Payton 54.5% of the time over LaDainian Tomlinson.

Across all battles:

Walter Payton win rate: 70.6%

LaDainian Tomlinson win rate: 33.6%

Fan FAQs

Who is the #1 contender on GoatWars in the Greatest NFL Running Backs of All Time league?

Barry Sanders currently tops the list. You can check out the full rankings on the GOAT List for more details!

Why is the debate between Walter Payton and LaDainian Tomlinson so close?

It's a testament to their respective legacies. Payton, known for his toughness and all-round excellence, and Tomlinson, celebrated for his versatility and scoring ability, both have passionate fanbases that see their favorite as the epitome of a running back. This matchup really highlights different flavors of greatness in the NFL.

Who's better: Walter Payton or LaDainian Tomlinson?

Right now, Walter Payton is slightly ahead in the votes. Fans often cite his incredible resilience and captivating style on the field, which may be nudging him just past LT in this neck-and-neck battle.