Football players biography

(1954-1999)

Who Was Walter Payton?

Nicknamed "Sweetness," Walter Payton was a star running back for the Chicago Bears, establishing multiple records and earning nine Pro Bowl selections during his Hall of Fame career.

Also known for his charitable work, Payton succumbed to bile duct cancer on November 1, 1999.

Early Years and Career

Walter Jerry Payton was born on July 25, 1954, in Columbia, Mississippi. Known by the nickname "Sweetness," Payton was admired both for his astonishing football skills and his generous off-the-field personality.

Payton first began to attract national attention as a halfback at Jackson State University, making the starting lineup his freshman year in 1971. He was selected for the All-American team and was named the Black College Player of the Year in 1973 and 1974.

In his four years at Jackson State, Payton rushed for more than 3,500 yards and scored more than 450 points, showing fans and opponents alike just w