Battles was born in Bluefield, West Virginia and played college football at West Virginia Wesleyan College. He was selected in the first round of the 1932 NFL Draft by the Boston Braves and played for them for two seasons. In 1934, he was traded to the Washington Redskins and played for them until 1937. During this time, he was selected to the All-Pro team in 1934 and 1936.
In 1938, he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers and continued to play for them until 1947. During his time with the Steelers, he was selected to the All-Pro team in 1940 and 1941. He was also selected to the Pro Bowl in 1942 and 1943. He was known for his hard-nosed running style and was one of the most productive running backs in the league during his time.
Battles retired from the NFL in 1947 and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968. He was known for his toughness and determination and is remembered as one of the greatest players of his era.
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