American · Columbia, Mississippi · Born 25 July 1954American football running back who played 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears, holding the NFL rushing record for nearly two decades until 2002.
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.
NFL career rushing record, exceptional versatility, and never missing games due to injury
How They Played
Elusive runner with exceptional balance, strong pass-catching ability, and famous high-stepping style
Lasting Impact
Revolutionized running back position with complete skill set, inspired Walter Payton Award for best FCS player
Career Honours
- Super Bowl XX
- NFL MVP 1977
- Pro Bowl 9x
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | 1975–1987 | 190 |
American Athletes