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Why did they call Walter Payton Sweetness?
The “Sweetness” nickname, interestingly, stemmed not from his outwardly sunny and playful personality, but from something that occurred during a practice for a college all-star team. While eluding a would-be tackler, he yelled out to the defender, “Your sweetness is your weakness!”
What was Walter Payton’s salary?
The Bears signed Payton to a three-year contract in 1978, with annual salaries approaching one-half million dollars. In 1983, he signed the highest contract in NFL history, with a $240,000 lifetime annuity. Payton proved worthy of the large salary.
Why do they call him Neon Deion?
“Neon” Deion “Primetime” Sanders Deion Sanders was “Prime Time” way before the NFL. Sanders was given the name by a friend after he scored 30 points in a Florida high school basketball game. Sanders was all-state in baseball, football and basketball while in high school.
What did Walter Payton do off the field?
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 what a versatile and talented player he was. Off the field, he showed his interest in helping others, studying education with an emphasis on working with the deaf.
Is Jarrett Payton the son of Walter Payton?
Jarrett attended the University of Miami. He is a Chicago native and the son of Super Bowl-winning running back Walter Payton. Jarrett played for the NFL Tennessee Titans, as well as the Montreal Alouettes and Toronto Argonauts in the CFL.
How long did Walter Payton play for the Chicago Bears?
Walter Jerry Payton (July 25, 1954 – November 1, 1999) was an American football running back who played for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL) for thirteen seasons. Payton was known around the NFL as “Sweetness”.
What was Walter Payton’s best performance in a game?
Payton’s first game was not particularly successful; he was held to zero net rushing yards on eight attempts. His best performance of the season was the final game against the New Orleans Saints, where he rushed for 134 yards on 20 carries. Payton finished the season with only 679 yards and seven touchdowns.
When did Walter Payton get the nickname sweetness?
In 1973, Payton had a school record 24 rushing touchdowns, and was named Black College Player of the Year. He won this award again in 1974, in addition to being selected for the All-American Team. Payton graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. He acquired the nickname “Sweetness” in college.
When was Walter Payton inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame?
He was named to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team in 1994 and the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team in 2019. Hall of Fame NFL player and coach Mike Ditka described Payton as the greatest football player he had ever seen—but even greater as a human being.