Marshall William Faulk, born on February 26, 1973, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a celebrated American football coach and former professional running back. He currently serves as the running backs coach for the Colorado Buffaloes. Widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, Faulk’s career is marked by record-breaking performances, leadership, and lasting influence on the game.
Quick Facts of Marshall Faulk
| Full Name | Marshall William Faulk |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 26, 1973 |
| Place of Birth | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) |
| Weight | 211 lb (96 kg) |
| College | San Diego State University |
| NFL Draft | 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2 |
| Teams Played For | Indianapolis Colts, St. Louis Rams |
| Position | Running Back |
| Current Role | Running Backs Coach, Colorado Buffaloes |
| Net Worth | Estimated $25 million |
| Family | Six children |
Early Life
Faulk grew up in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward and attended Carver High School. From a young age, he demonstrated exceptional athletic ability, not only in football but also in track, recording impressive times in the 100m, 200m, and 400m. During high school, Faulk rushed for 1,800 yards and 32 touchdowns in his final two seasons. On defense, he intercepted 11 passes, returning six for touchdowns. Interestingly, Faulk sold popcorn at New Orleans Saints games as a child, demonstrating his early work ethic and determination.
College Career
Faulk accepted a scholarship at San Diego State University, determined to play running back despite interest from other programs for him to play cornerback. He made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 1991, running for 386 yards and seven touchdowns in only his second game, setting NCAA freshman records. That season, he amassed 1,429 rushing yards, 23 total touchdowns, and 1,630 total yards from scrimmage.
Throughout his college career, Faulk continued to shine. He gained over 1,600 rushing yards as a sophomore and excelled as a junior with 1,530 rushing yards and 640 receiving yards. He finished college with 5,562 all-purpose yards and 62 touchdowns, ranking among NCAA’s all-time leaders. Faulk was a two-time unanimous All-American and a Heisman Trophy finalist in 1992 and 1993.
Professional Career
Indianapolis Colts (1994–1998)
Drafted second overall in the 1994 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, Faulk signed a seven-year $17.2 million contract. He made an immediate impact, rushing for 1,282 yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie season. Faulk became the first player to win both the Offensive Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowl MVP in the same season.
In 1998, Faulk teamed up with rookie quarterback Peyton Manning, recording 1,319 rushing yards and 906 receiving yards, finishing the season with 2,227 total yards from scrimmage, an NFL record at the time.
St. Louis Rams (1999–2006)
Faulk was traded to the St. Louis Rams in 1999, signing a seven-year, $45.2 million contract. He became a cornerstone of the “Greatest Show on Turf”, the Rams’ legendary high-powered offense. That year, Faulk totaled 2,429 yards from scrimmage, breaking Barry Sanders’ record and helping the Rams win Super Bowl XXXIV.
Faulk’s 2000 season earned him NFL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year, as he rushed for 1,359 yards and caught 87 passes for 830 receiving yards, scoring 26 total touchdowns. He led the Rams to another Super Bowl appearance, solidifying his legacy as one of the most versatile and dynamic running backs in NFL history.
In the later years of his career, Faulk battled injuries but remained a respected leader. He retired in 2007 after undergoing reconstructive knee surgery, leaving the game with 12,279 rushing yards, 6,875 receiving yards, and 136 total touchdowns.
NFL Records and Achievements
- Fastest to 16,000 and 17,000 yards from scrimmage
- Most consecutive seasons with 2,000+ yards from scrimmage: 4
- Only player with 12,000 rushing and 6,000 receiving yards
- 3× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1999–2001)
- NFL MVP (2000)
- 7× Pro Bowl selection
- Super Bowl champion (XXXIV)
Faulk was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017.
Post-NFL Career
After retiring, Faulk became a longtime NFL Network analyst, providing insights on NFL Total Access and other programs. He appeared on television shows, including Life in Pieces, and was occasionally involved in public speaking and media work.
In 2025, Faulk transitioned to coaching, joining the Colorado Buffaloes as the running backs coach, where he now mentors the next generation of athletes.
Personal Life
Faulk was married to Lindsay Stoudt from 2006 to 2014 and has six children, including Marshall Faulk Jr., who played college football at Central Washington. He is a cousin of former NFL running back Kevin Faulk. Faulk also runs a charitable foundation in San Diego, promoting sports and education for underprivileged youth.
Legacy
Marshall Faulk is remembered as one of the NFL’s most versatile and impactful running backs. His combination of rushing ability, receiving talent, and leadership has influenced generations of players. Faulk’s records, awards, and mentorship continue to leave a lasting impact on football culture both on and off the field.
