In 1976, he replaced an injured Robert Newhouse in the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, rushing for 104 yards on 19 carries, along with 7 receptions for 66 yards. He missed 3 games with severe rib bruises he suffered against the Baltimore Colts and his return was also hindered by a bout with the flu. Against the Atlanta Falcons he rushed for 88 yards on 15 carries. He finished with 424 rushing yards (third on the team), 325 receiving yards (third on the team) and 84 scored points (fourth on the team).