Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Darren McFadden

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 19, 2025

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Darren McFadden made an impact.

Darren McFadden is a former American professional football running back who played 10 seasons in the NFL. A standout at the University of Arkansas, he was drafted fourth overall by the Oakland Raiders in 2008. McFadden spent seven seasons with the Raiders before finishing his career with three seasons for the Dallas Cowboys. He was known for his speed and elusiveness, though his NFL career was somewhat hampered by injuries.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2005: Freshman Season at Arkansas

In 2005, Darren McFadden's true freshman season, he rushed 176 times for 1,113 yards and 11 touchdowns for Arkansas Razorbacks.

2006: Record-Breaking Season at Arkansas

In 2006, Darren McFadden rushed for a school-record 1,647 yards, scored 14 touchdowns, and threw for three more, becoming a first-team All-American, despite an early season toe injury.

February 24, 2008: NFL Scouting Combine

On February 24, 2008, at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Darren McFadden ran an official time of 4.33 seconds on the 40-yard dash.

September 14, 2008: First Professional Touchdown

On September 14, 2008, Darren McFadden scored his first professional touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, gaining 164 yards on 21 carries. He also suffered a toe injury in the game.

2008: Drafted by the Oakland Raiders

In 2008, Darren McFadden was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the first round as the fourth overall pick of the NFL draft after playing college football for the Arkansas Razorbacks.

October 24, 2010: Four Touchdowns Against Denver Broncos

On October 24, 2010, against the Denver Broncos, McFadden carried the ball 16 times for 165 yards and three touchdowns, and recorded two receptions for 31 yards and a touchdown. He became the fourth player in franchise history to have four touchdowns in a game and was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week.

March 11, 2014: Oakland re-signed McFadden

On March 11, 2014, the Oakland Raiders re-signed Darren McFadden after not re-signing Rashad Jennings.

March 13, 2015: McFadden signed with the Dallas Cowboys

On March 13, 2015, Darren McFadden signed a two-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys worth up to $5.85 million including a $200,000 bonus, to replace DeMarco Murray.

2016: Placed on reserve/NFI list.

In 2016, McFadden had surgery after breaking his right elbow in an off-field accident at his home during Memorial Day weekend, and was placed on the reserve/NFI list during the preseason.