Career Duration
Earl Campbell played in the National Football League for eight seasons from 1978 to 1985. He was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the first round of the 1978 NFL Draft and spent his first six years with the team. He concluded his career with the New Orleans Saints in 1985 and the Atlanta Falcons in 1986, with the primary playing stretch occurring between 1978 and 1985.
Verified Playing Timeline
The table below summarizes Earl Campbell's career timeline by team and year, with sources based on widely reported historical records and standard pro football reference data.
| Season | Team | Role/Status | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1978–1983 | Houston Oilers | Starting running back | Historical team roster |
| 1984–1985 | Houston Oilers | Starting running back | Historical team roster |
| 1985 | New Orleans Saints | Running back | Historical team roster |
| 1986 | Atlanta Falcons | Running back (final season) | Historical team roster |
Key Career Context
Campbell was a consensus All-American at the University of Texas and won the Heisman Trophy in 1977. His decision to enter the 1978 NFL Draft made him the first overall pick by the Oilers. He quickly became one of the premier running backs in the league, known for his punishing running style and durability during his peak years.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Over his eight-year NFL tenure, Campbell was selected to the Pro Bowl four times and earned first-team All-Pro honors twice. He led the league in rushing in 1979 and was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year that same year. His performances established him as one of the most powerful runners of his era and a lasting icon in Texas football history.
Post-NFL Impact and Legacy
After retiring from playing, Campbell remained connected to the sport through media appearances and community involvement. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990 and is frequently referenced in discussions about the evolution of the running back position. His legacy endures in part because of his measurable on-field production during those eight seasons.