Walter Payton

Date of Birth: July 25, 1954

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: November 1, 1999

Biography

Walter Payton, affectionately known as “Sweetness,” was an American professional football player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the National Football League (NFL). Born in Columbia, Mississippi, Payton excelled in football at a young age and went on to play college football for Jackson State University, where he earned numerous accolades. In 1975, Payton was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round, fourth overall. Over his 13-season career with the Bears, he amassed 16,726 rushing yards, a record that stood until 2002. Payton was known for his versatility, durability, and relentless work ethic. He was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 1977 and won Super Bowl XX with the Bears in 1986. Off the field, Payton was equally impactful. He was a devoted philanthropist, establishing the Walter Payton Foundation to support various charitable causes, including organ donation awareness. His legacy continues to inspire athletes and non-athletes alike. Walter Payton passed away on November 1, 1999, from a rare liver disease and bile duct cancer. His contributions to the sport and his community have left an indelible mark.

5 Interesting Facts about Walter Payton

1. Walter Payton’s nickname “Sweetness” was a tribute to his graceful playing style and his kind-hearted personality.

2. He played his entire NFL career with the Chicago Bears, from 1975 until 1987.

3. Payton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993.

4. He held the NFL rushing record with 16,726 yards until it was broken by Emmitt Smith in 2002.

5. The NFL’s Man of the Year Award was renamed the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in his honor, recognizing a player’s volunteer and charity work, as well as his excellence on the field.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Walter Payton

1. “When you’re good at something, you’ll tell everyone. When you’re great at something, they’ll tell you.”

2. “Never die easy. Why run out of bounds and die easy? Make that linebacker pay. It carries into all facets of your life.”

3. “If you ask me how I want to be remembered, it is as a winner.”

4. “I want to be remembered as the guy who gave his all whenever he was on the field.”

5. “Tomorrow is promised to no one.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Walter Payton’s net worth was estimated to be around $3 million.

Children

Walter Payton had two children with his wife, Connie Norwood Payton: a son, Jarrett Payton, who briefly played in the NFL and CFL, and a daughter, Brittney Payton, who has worked as a television host and sports commentator.