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San Francisco 49ers: 5 greatest running backs in franchise history

By Robert Smith

Nov 17, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 17, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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No. 4: Hugh McElhenny

Many of you may be saying, “Who?”

Known as “The King,” Hugh McElhenny played for San Francisco from 1952 through 1960, displaying a host of electrifying moves as well as excelling in the return game, McElhenny posted 6,954 yards from scrimmage to go along with 50 touchdowns.

A member of the famed “Million Dollar Backfield” that included fellow running backs John Henry Johnson and Joe Perry — to go along with quarterback Y.A. Tittle — McElhenny was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1970.

During his time with San Francisco, he also became a receiving threat as a target for Tittle, becoming a Pro Bowler after the 1952 and 1953 seasons as well as from 1956 through 1958.

McElhenny played an integral part in the 49ers finishing in a tie for the Western Conference title in 1957, although they lost to Detroit in the tie-breaker game.

His nickname came while with the 49ers because he was the most feared running back in the NFL. Along with his prowess as a runner and receiver, McElhenny also excelled returning punts and kickoffs, leading him to 11,375 all-purpose yards during his entire thirteen-years in the NFL.

McElhenny later had his jersey retired by the 49ers.