Thurman Thomas
Inducted:
2007
Player Stats
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
206 lb (93 kg)
Born:
May 16, 1966
Houston, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
Oklahoma State (1984–1987)
Thurman Thomas was the engine of the Buffalo Bills’ high-powered offense during their historic run of four straight Super Bowl appearances. A complete and versatile running back, Thomas excelled as both a runner and receiver, making him one of the league’s most dangerous all-around weapons.
He led the NFL in yards from scrimmage for four consecutive seasons (1989–1992), a rare measure of his consistency and impact. Thomas’ vision, balance, and ability to thrive in both power and open-field situations made him a perfect fit for Buffalo’s fast-paced, no-huddle attack. He topped 1,000 rushing yards in eight straight seasons and delivered in the biggest moments, setting several postseason marks.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007, Thomas remains one of the most complete running backs of his era and a central figure in the Bills’ AFC dominance of the early 1990s.
Thomas' Awards and Honors
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1991)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1991)[1]
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1990, 1991)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1989, 1992, 1993)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1989–1993)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Only player to lead NFL in yards from scrimmage 4 straight seasons
- One of the few RBs with 8 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons
- Key offensive force behind four straight AFC championships
NFL Teams
Buffalo Bills (1988–1999)
Miami Dolphins (2000)
NFL Draft:
1988: 2nd round, 40th overall pick
Buffalo Bills
Number Worn:
34
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1988–2000)
Games Played:
182
Game Started:
160
Rushing yards:
12,074
Rushing average:
4.2
Rushing touchdowns:
65
Receptions:
472
Receiving yards:
4,458
Receiving touchdowns:
23