Eric Dickerson

Lore & Background

The cultural footprint Dickerson left on Los Angeles was profound. He became a local icon, celebrated not just for his athletic prowess but for his humble demeanor and community engagement. The 'Dickerson Era' is remembered as a time when the Rams were a legitimate championship contender, fueled by the relentless drive of their star back. His jersey number 26 remains one of the most revered in franchise history, symbolizing an era where the Rams were feared for their rushing attack.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was thick with anticipation on a crisp Sunday afternoon in 1984. The crowd roared as Eric Dickerson lined up behind center, the white and blue of his jersey stark against the green turf. With a snap that seemed to echo through the stadium, he took the handoff and instantly exploded into open space. Defenders lunged, but Dickerson danced around them with a fluidity that defied physics, his cleats churning up the dirt as he sprinted toward the end zone.

Reader's Guide

Eric Dickerson's tenure with the Los Angeles Rams spanned from 1983 to 1987, marking one of the most productive five-year stretches in NFL history. During this period, he accumulated over 6,000 rushing yards and scored more than 50 touchdowns, averaging nearly 4.5 yards per carry. His signature plays often involved a burst of acceleration that left linebackers grasping at air, followed by a sudden cut that separated him from the defense entirely. His impact on Rams culture was immediate and transformative. Before Dickerson, the team relied heavily on a balanced attack; with him, they became a rushing powerhouse that could control the clock and wear down opponents physically. He brought a level of excitement to the Coliseum that drew record crowds and revitalized fan enthusiasm across Southern California. Dickerson's legacy is defined by his 1984 season, where he set the single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards—a mark that stood for nearly two decades. His ability to break tackles with sheer momentum and his vision in finding holes made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Even after leaving Los Angeles, his influence remained a benchmark for every running back who followed.

Did You Know?

• Eric Dickerson holds the NFL single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards set during his 1984 season with the Rams.
• He was drafted second overall in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams.
• Dickerson led the league in rushing yards in 1983 and 1984, but not in 1985 (Marcus Allen led that year).
• He was selected to four Pro Bowls during his five-year stint with the franchise.