Lasting Legacy of Walter Payton: A Look at the Influence on History

How the contributions of Walter Payton continue to shape the world today.

Walter Payton, nicknamed "Sweetness", was a celebrated American professional football running back for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons. He is widely considered one of the greatest football players in history. His remarkable career was defined by his exceptional athleticism, durability, and dedication, establishing him as a legendary figure in the NFL.

Sections (5)

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

1987: Appearance on Saturday Night Live and Charity Television Special

In 1987, Walter Payton appeared on an episode of "Saturday Night Live" and participated in Prince Edward of the United Kingdom's charity television special, "The Grand Knockout Tournament".

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1993: Elected to Pro Football Hall of Fame and Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame

In 1993, Walter Payton was elected to both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy in football.

1993: Induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame

In 1993, Walter Payton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his accomplishments and contributions to the sport.

1994: Named to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team

In 1994, Walter Payton was named to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, honoring him as one of the greatest players in NFL history.

1996: Elected to College Football Hall of Fame

In 1996, Walter Payton was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his achievements in college football.

1996: Induction into the College Football Hall of Fame

In 1996, Walter Payton was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his college football career.

1996: Asteroid Discovered and Named in Payton's Memory

The asteroid 85386 Payton was discovered by the Air Force Maui Optical and Supercomputing observatory in 1996 and later named in Walter Payton's memory.

November 1, 1999: Walter Payton's Death

On November 1, 1999, Walter Jerry Payton, an American professional football running back, passed away. He played in the NFL for 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears and was nicknamed "Sweetness".

1999: City Sticker Created in Payton's Honor

In 1999, the city of Chicago created a special city sticker that featured Walter Payton. Proceeds supported organ-donor programs.

August 2000: Organ Donation Requests Added to City Vehicle Registration

In response to Payton's appeals, the City of Chicago in August 2000 inserted organ donation requests into city-vehicle-registration mailings; by August 2000, 13,000 people had signed on to the program.

2002: Walter Payton Cancer Fund Established

In 2002, the Payton family established the Walter Payton Cancer Fund.

2006: LaDainian Tomlinson names Payton as a mentor

During the 2006 NFL season, LaDainian Tomlinson, named Payton as one of his foremost mentors and inspirations.

September 2007: Walter Payton Liver Center Opened

In September 2007, the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center opened the Walter Payton Liver Center.

May 20, 2008: Official Naming Citation Published for Asteroid Payton

On May 20, 2008, the official naming citation for the asteroid 85386 Payton was published by the Minor Planet Center.

November 1, 2009: Special Tribute Video Aired

On November 1, 2009, the Chicago Bears honored Walter Payton's career and life by airing a special tribute video during halftime, featuring highlight clips and interviews.