Sweetness — Walter Payton was the most complete running back in NFL history, combining 16,726 rushing yards (the record when he retired) with outstanding pass-catching, blocking and an extraordinary work ethic. His off-season training programme on a hill in Arlington Heights, Illinois, became legendary in the NFL. Never missed a game through injury in 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears and was the heart of the 1985 Super Bowl championship side. Named to nine Pro Bowls and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, he remains the most beloved player in Bears history.
Walter Jerry Payton was born in Columbia, Mississippi in 1954. Chicago Bears selected him fourth overall in 1975. His 13-season career produced 16,726 rushing yards — the NFL record at his retirement in 1987 — and 110 rushing touchdowns. He won Super Bowl XX with the dominant 1985 Bears. He was named NFL MVP in 1977 and was selected to nine Pro Bowls. He missed only one game across 13 seasons. He was known as Sweetness for his fluid running style, balance and willingness to run through defenders. Beyond rushing he was an exceptional blocker and pass catcher. He died of bile duct cancer in November 1999 aged 45. The NFL's Man of the Year award was renamed in his honour. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.
Super Bowl XX
Career Honours
- Super Bowl XX
- NFL MVP 1977
- Pro Bowl 9x