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Birth/Childhood of Walter Payton
Walter Jerry Payton was born July 25, 1954 in Columbia, Mississippi. His parents Peter and Alyne Payton also gave birth to his siblings, Eddie and Pam. He spent a lot of time outside with his brother and sister playing sports (Biography of Walter Payton). Eddie and Pam helped Walter find his love for competition. This love is what prepared him for the competition he would face later on in his sporting career. -
Walter Payton College Career
Walter Payton surprised many people when he was named the starting running back at Jackson State University his freshman year in 1971. At the end of his career for the Tigers, Payton acquired over 3,500 rushing yards and scored more than 450 points. Walter was also named an All-American and named the Black College Player of the Year in 1973 and 1974 (Walter Payton). It was at college where Payton developed the nickname "Sweetness", not only for his fluid and versatile play on the field, but also -
Walter Payton College Career Cont.
his kind hearted and loving personality off the field. He loved to help others, which is rare for such an incredible athlete. College is where Payton really blossomed into a man for others. He was not only one of the greatest players to play the game, but also one of the greatest men to ever play the game. -
Chicago Bears Draft Walter Payton in First Round
The Chicago Bears knew they wanted to Draft Walter Payton in the first round. They believed he could help turn the franchise around. The 5' 10 1/4'' inch 200 pound running back from Jackson State was supposed to be the most talented running back in the 1975 draft class. All the major scouts certainly thought so and agreed with the Bears choice. After Walter was drafted, he said to the media, "When I get through with Chicago they'll be loving me. I'm glad I went that high in the draft." -
Bears Draft Walter Payton in First Round Cont.
Payton also stated, "I know Chicago is a nice place... I know it's cold in Chicago". Payton flew to the windy city later that week to meet his new team (Pierson). He was excited to be drafted and continue his football career in the NFL. He was an eager and talented football player excited to begin the next step of his life. In a way, his fresh attitude and open mind helped him succeed as an NFL running back right out of the gate. -
Payton Breaks Single Game Rushing Record
November 20, 1977 was a simple afternoon in which the Chicago Bears were due to play the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Payton was recovering from the flu the prior week, so people were skeptical at how effective he would be. Payton ended the day with 275 yards and one touchdown to break O.J. Simpson's single game rushing record by two yards. His fight and determination after recovering from the flu proves the kind of player he was. His gave his best effort to compete for his teammates. -
Walter Payton Breaks Jim Brown's Career Rushing Record
On this date, Walter Payton become the most effective and dominant running back in NFL history. Such a title might get to some people's heads, but not Walter. He remained humble after the game, and in the post-game the first thing he did was give credit to his teammates. He then states, "I get more out of chasing, as opposed to obtaining" (21). Payton remains humble throughout the celebration, showing that he is a driven and motivated individual who loves to compete. The interview reveals the -
Walter Payton Breaks Jim Brown's Career Rushing Record
true character behind the greatest running back in history. He was a caring, loving person and it showed in the post-game interview. No wonder they called him "Sweetness." -
Bears Win Super Bowl XX
The Chicago Bears Dominated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 20 with their stellar 46-10 victory. Their defense led the way, using the dynamic 46 defense. Although the game was a blow out, star running back Walter Payton didn’t score a single touchdown in the Super Bowl. Instead, at the goal line, Head Coach Mike Ditka decided to give the ball to 300 pound defensive lineman William "the refrigerator" Perry to run in for the score (Hersh). Walter Payton helped lead his team to the promise -
Bears Win Super Bowl XX Cont.
land. His desire to be the best became a reality when he won the Super Bowl. Even though he didn't score, he was still one of the main reasons the 1985-86 Chicago Bears were Super Bowl Champions. After the game, Coach Ditka said, "New England saw stars. The Bears reached them" (Hersh). The team finally achieved their goal, with the help of Walter Payton they reached the stars. -
Walter Payton Elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Walter Payton’s enshrinement speech for his induction to the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio was an amazing end to the brilliant career of number 34. In his speech, he said it's embarrassing being up in front of everyone because all of the attention is on him. It embarrassed him because in his heart he knew there were teammates and coaches that helped him get to where he wanted to go (goatsandglorytv). Now that he is finally there, in the Hall of Fame, he owes them all the credit. -
Walter Payton Elected into Pro Football Hall of Fame Cont.
proving his morals and that he is a family man. He apologized to his wife for his attitude and how hard he was to live with when he played in the NFL. He was as humble and giving a man as there ever was, and his induction speech just emphasizes that point. -
Walter Payton Dies
Early in 1999, Payton became ill. He died later that year on November 1st from cancer. Even though such a great man passed away his legacy lives on. The Walter and Connie Payton foundation was founded in 1988 to help the inner city kids of Chicago. After his death, Payton's wife and two kids continued doing the work Walter would want (Walter Payton). He was an extraordinary man. Now with his charity organization, his "Sweetness" will live on for a long time.
