Roger Craig

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Born in Preston, Mississippi, Craig's parents relocated to Davenport, Iowa, where he attended Davenport Community Schools. He later attended Central High School in Davenport, Iowa, graduating in 1979. Craig played college football at Nebraska, rushing for 2,446 yards and 26 touchdowns. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the second round (49th overall) of the 1983 NFL draft. In Super Bowl XIX, he became the first player to score three touchdowns in a Super Bowl. In 1985, he became the first in NFL history to run and receive for at least 1,000 yards in the same season. He was named NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 1988. Craig played eight seasons with the 49ers, then two with the Los Angeles Raiders and two with the Minnesota Vikings, retiring after the 1993 season.

In Their Own Story

The fog rolled thick over Candlestick Park, dampening the leather of Craig's gloves as he stepped into the huddle. The roar of the crowd was a distant hum compared to the sharp cadence of Joe Montana's voice. "Blue 42!" Montana barked, eyes locked on the linebacker creeping toward the line. Craig didn't just hear the play call; he felt the geometry of it in his bones. He knew that if the safety cheated up, he would be the check-down option; if they blitzed, he was the release valve. The ball snapped. It wasn't a handoff this time, but a quick slant. Craig twisted his hips, caught the ball against his chest, and turned upfield. Three defenders converged, but he spun away from the first, stiff-armed the second, and found a sliver of daylight. He surged through the gap, thundering into the end zone to seal another victory for the dynasty.

Reader's Guide

Roger Craig is a former NFL running back known for his versatility, being the first to achieve 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in a single season. He played a key role in the 49ers' three Super Bowl victories in the 1980s. His distinctive high-knee running style was developed with help from coach Ira Dunsworth. Craig currently works as VP of Business Development at TIBCO Software.

Did You Know?

• Craig was the first NFL player to have 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season (1985).
• He scored three touchdowns in Super Bowl XIX, the first player to do so in a Super Bowl.
• Craig was teammates with future NFL tight end Jamie Williams at Central High School in Davenport, Iowa.
• He broke the school record in the 110 hurdles that had been set by Jim Jensen.
• Craig's time of 14.43 in the 110 hurdles is still listed among the All-Time Bests at the Iowa State Track and Field Championships.