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About
Running back who broke NFL records for the most rushing yards, carries, and touchdowns during his 13-year career with the Chicago Bears.
He was known as Sweetness and after his death in 1999, the NFL's Man of the Year award - given to one player each season for their volunteer and charity work - was named in his honor.
He broke the record of most NFL rushing yards, which was formerly held by O.J. Simpson. -
Before fame
He was a Boy Scout, a choir singer, and a marching band and jazz band drummer who didn't try out for the high school football team his sophomore year because he wanted to avoid competing with his brother Eddie.
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Related to
He married Connie Payton in 1976. His son Jarrett played running back at the University of Miami. Walter also had a daughter named Brittney.
- The meaning of the name Payton: From Pacca's Town