Or the way Jim Brown played fullback (not blocking)?JohnTurney wrote: ↑Thu Dec 04, 2025 11:57 am ....Roger Craig was the more significant player, from impact, eye test, those things. I think his PSI ranks were very high, number one as his position at least 3 times ... top FB and a top RB, though in a two back set not a ton of difference In other word,s Rathman was different than he was. So some of the #1 ranks as a FB are rightly questioned because he was playing FB in the way CHuck Foreman played fullback ...
Certainly Craig does not compare to Brown as a running back (imo no one does).
And I admit I am not particularly objective... I'm a 49ers fan (especially of that time).
I saw Craig play dozens of games and he definitely passed the "eye test" for me. During his prime with the Niners they had several truly elite players (Lott, Montana, Rice) so I can't say he was always the best player on the field (or even on the team) but he played at a Hall of Fame level for many years on a dominant team (the "Team of the 80's) and had significant (sometimes incredible) games in the playoffs and Super Bowl(s).
I'm hoping Craig makes it this season (and I appreciate John's analysis and sincerely hope the Hall sees it the same way).
I'm happy when almost any senior is enshrined but Craig holds a special place in my heart and in the hearts and minds of many, many 49ers fans who witnessed the team in the 1980's.