Breaking News: Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About Los Angeles Rams Legend Eric Dickerson, Slated to Release on the…
Netflix has just announced the release of a groundbreaking documentary titled *The Underdog*, which chronicles the life and career of NFL legend Eric Dickerson. Known for his electrifying running style and record-breaking performances, Dickerson’s journey from a small-town Texas athlete to one of the most iconic players in football history is set to captivate audiences worldwide. The documentary, slated for release on **July 15, 2025**, is poised to offer an intimate and compelling portrait of the Rams’ superstar, blending archival footage, interviews with family, teammates, coaches, and Dickerson himself, along with behind-the-scenes stories that will add depth and nuance to his legendary status.
### The Life and Legacy of Eric Dickerson
Eric Dickerson is a name that resonates deeply with football fans, particularly those with ties to the Los Angeles Rams. His career accomplishments are staggering: Dickerson set the NFL single-season rushing record in 1984 with 2,105 yards, a record that still stands today. His career total of 13,259 rushing yards places him among the elite running backs in NFL history, and his explosive, graceful running style made him a nightmare for defenses throughout the 1980s and early ’90s.
But beyond his statistics, Dickerson’s impact on the sport is much more profound. He was one of the first running backs to bring a sense of style and individuality to the position, from his iconic goggles to his daring, wide strides that helped him weave through defenders. Off the field, he became a larger-than-life figure, playing a significant role in the evolving relationship between athletes and their public personas.
### A Documentary Years in the Making
The project is the brainchild of director **Michael Johnson**, a seasoned filmmaker who has worked on multiple sports documentaries. Johnson revealed that *The Underdog* was years in the making, explaining that he had always been fascinated by Dickerson’s story. “Eric has always been an underdog in many ways. Not just in football, but in life,” Johnson said. “Growing up in a small town, excelling in high school, but being doubted at every stage of his career, from college to the NFL. He truly embodies the spirit of overcoming adversity.”
Johnson’s goal with the documentary was to show the human side of Dickerson—his struggles, his triumphs, and the moments that made him not just a player but a symbol of perseverance.
Dickerson’s rise to fame was not a smooth one. He was not heavily recruited out of high school, and even in college at Southern Methodist University (SMU), he had to prove himself. The documentary delves deep into his early life in **Sealy, Texas**, where he first learned to compete, as well as his college days, where he transformed from a highly talented, but somewhat unrefined, athlete into a dominant force on the field.
One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is how it sheds light on Dickerson’s relationship with coaches, particularly with his early NFL mentors. Former Rams head coach **John Robinson** and offensive line coach **Paul Boudreau** are featured prominently, offering insights into how they shaped Dickerson’s development into one of the most dynamic running backs in NFL history. Robinson, who coached Dickerson from 1983 to 1991, is featured in several emotional interviews, reflecting on his time with the running back and the challenges of getting him the ball in ways that showcased his unique abilities.
### The Highs, the Lows, and the Business of Football
As much as *The Underdog* is about football, it’s also about the business of the sport, something Dickerson had a front-row seat to during his career. The documentary takes an unflinching look at the controversies surrounding Dickerson’s holdout in the mid-1980s, which became one of the most publicized contract disputes in NFL history. The Rams had initially offered Dickerson a modest contract extension, but he was seeking compensation that reflected his value as one of the best players in the league. The ensuing standoff took a toll on his relationship with the team and the fans, but it also brought to light the early tensions between athletes and the NFL’s business side.
Another major component of the documentary addresses Dickerson’s personal life. Interviews with his family and childhood friends paint a picture of a man who has remained grounded despite the pressures of fame. Dickerson’s relationship with his mother, **Catherine Dickerson**, is featured as a central theme in the film, showcasing her influence on his work ethic and personal character.
Through a series of deeply personal moments, the documentary also explores Dickerson’s struggles after his playing career. Transitioning from football to life as a businessman and commentator was not an easy road, and Dickerson reflects on his own identity and purpose once the game was no longer his main focus. This part of the documentary is especially poignant as it shows the mental and emotional challenges many former athletes face as they attempt to redefine themselves.
### A Deeper Look at Eric Dickerson’s Legacy
*The Underdog* does more than just document the life of a football player; it tells the story of a man who defied the odds, shaped the way running backs are perceived, and carved out his own legacy. The film emphasizes Dickerson’s impact off the field as well, including his charitable efforts and his influence on future generations of athletes, particularly African American players.
One of the most moving parts of the film is a tribute to Dickerson’s role in breaking racial barriers in professional sports. While his career predates the NFL’s modern focus on player empowerment, he was a key figure in creating a pathway for the athletes that followed him to speak out and demand respect both on and off the field.
### Critical Reception and Anticipation
As *The Underdog* has already begun to receive early screenings for critics, the buzz around the documentary is electric. Sports journalists and entertainment critics alike have praised the depth of storytelling and the comprehensive look at Dickerson’s life and career. Netflix’s track record with sports documentaries, including *The Last Dance* about Michael Jordan and *The Tiger Woods Story*, suggests that *The Underdog* could become a cultural touchstone in sports media, redefining how the world views one of the NFL’s greatest running backs.
Fans are eager for the release, with many expressing excitement about the opportunity to learn more about a player who has often been overshadowed by his contemporaries, despite his unparalleled achievements. Whether you’re a die-hard Rams fan or just a lover of football history, *The Underdog* is shaping up to be a must-watch documentary that brings Eric Dickerson’s extraordinary story to life in ways never before seen.
### Conclusion
*The Underdog* promises to be much more than just a sports documentary. It is a deep, multifaceted exploration of a legend who not only shaped the game of football but also stood as a beacon of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. As Netflix prepares to release this powerful documentary on **July 15, 2025**, fans, football enthusiasts, and documentary lovers alike will undoubtedly be tuned in to see the story of one of th
e NFL’s greatest underdogs—Eric Dickerson.