Childhood and Education Journey of Walter Payton in Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Walter Payton. A timeline of key moments.

Walter Payton, nicknamed "Sweetness," was a legendary NFL running back who played for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons. He is considered one of the greatest football players ever. Payton was renowned for his remarkable agility, strength, and relentless running style. He holds numerous NFL records and is remembered for his dedication, sportsmanship, and impact on the sport.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

July 25, 1953: Walter Payton's Birth

Walter Jerry Payton was born on July 25, 1953. He would later become a celebrated American professional football running back.

1953: Walter Payton's Year of Birth

Walter Payton was born in 1953 in Columbia, Mississippi, although his year of birth was disputed, with some sources citing 1954.

July 25, 1954: Claimed Date of Birth

Throughout his life, Walter Payton had claimed his date of birth as July 25, 1954, a date that is cited in many of his early biographies, although his actual birthdate was July 25, 1953.

1972: Gale Sayers Retires

In 1972, Gale Sayers retired, after which the Chicago Bears endured several losing seasons.

1973: Black College Player of the Year Award

In 1973, Walter Payton was named Black College Player of the Year and had a school record 24 rushing touchdowns while playing for Jackson State.

1974: All-American Team Selection and Black College Player of the Year Award

In 1974, Walter Payton was selected for the All-American Team and won the Black College Player of the Year award for the second time.

1975: Graduation from Jackson State

Walter Payton graduated from Jackson State in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in communications.

1976: Marriage to Connie Norwood

In 1976, Walter Payton married Connie Norwood and resided in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

1978: Death of Walter Payton's Father

In 1978, Walter Payton's father passed away in jail after being wrongfully accused of driving under the influence.

1980: Birth of Son, Jarrett Payton

In 1980, Walter Payton and Connie Norwood had their first child, Jarrett Payton.

1983: Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

In 1983, Walter Payton underwent arthroscopic surgery on both knees, which he referred to as an 11,000-yard checkup.

1985: Birth of Daughter, Brittney Payton

In 1985, Walter Payton and Connie Norwood had their second child, Brittney Payton.

1987: Accidental shooting at nightclub

In 1987, Walter Payton accidentally shot Elmer Ray Hutson Jr., the manager of his nightclub in Schaumburg, Illinois. Payton was unfamiliar with his new 9 mm French-made Manurhin Pistolet and unaware that it was loaded. The gun discharged as it was being handed to Payton by a third party, causing knee damage to Hutson.

1987: Appearance on Saturday Night Live and The Grand Knockout Tournament

In 1987, Walter Payton co-hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live with Joe Montana. He also participated in Prince Edward of the United Kingdom's charity television special The Grand Knockout Tournament.

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1990: NFL Expansion Team Pursuit in St. Louis

In 1990, Walter Payton, along with other investors, sought to bring an NFL expansion team to St. Louis, Missouri. Payton wanted to become the first minority owner in NFL history.

1993: Trans-Am Series Accident

In 1993, Walter Payton drove in several Trans-Am Series events, including a race at Road America where his car overturned and caught fire. He suffered burns but escaped serious injury.

1993: Co-founded Walter Payton Power Equipment

In 1993, Walter Payton, along with Mike Lanigan, co-founded Walter Payton Power Equipment, a midwest crane and heavy equipment distributor.

1994: Appearance at WWF's SummerSlam Event

In 1994, Walter Payton made an appearance at the World Wrestling Federation's SummerSlam event in the corner of Razor Ramon.

1995: Los Angeles Rams Move to St. Louis

In 1995, St. Louis finally received an NFL team when the Los Angeles Rams moved to the city.

1995: Purchase of Roundhouse in Aurora, Illinois

In 1995, Walter Payton and several partners purchased a roundhouse in Aurora, Illinois, previously owned by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. The property became known as "Walter Payton's Roundhouse."