The Bear Of Bears: Remembering Walter Payton

Image source: Muthead.com

Many football experts, including Hall-of-Famer and legendary coach Mike Ditka believe that Chicago Bear Walter Payton was the greatest running back in the history of the game. But what was more astounding was that his on-field achievements were matched by the person that he was outside of the game. He was by all accounts one of the nicest people to ever come out of the NFL. Such a personality was rooted in humble beginnings.

Walter Jerry Payton was born on July 25, 1954. In high school, he played in a marching band, sang for the choir, and ran for the track team. He didn’t join the football team though so as not to compete with his brother Eddie, who was also on the team. When Eddie graduated, Walter joined the team, and immediately became a star running back because of his strength and speed.

Image source: Psacard.com

In college, Walter played for Jackson State University, which was historically black, alongside other future pro football players Jerome Barkum and Jackie Slater. As a part of the Jackson State Tigers, Payton dominated the competition.

Although Walter Payton broke a few records, it would all pale in comparison to his performance on October 1, 1972, in a game against Lane College. Payton scored seven touchdowns and led the Tigers through a lopsided 72-0 victory. This game would be a precursor to his legend.

Richard Ohlhaber loves everything about Chicago, especially the Bears and the Bulls. Learn more about him and the professional sports teams of the Windy City by subscribing to this Twitter account.