Timeline: Walter Payton

Jul 25, 1954

Walter Payton was Born

A legend was born on July 25 1954. He was born in Columbia, MIssissippi. His parents names were Peter and Alyne Payton

Aug 21, 1968

Attends Columbia High School

Walter Payton attends 1968. He played drums in the marching band and was phenominal football player. Walter Payton graduated in 1972.

Sep 4, 1972

Attends Jackson State University

Walter Payton attends Jackson State University in 1972. He attended on a scholarship. He actually ended up forming a scholarship for the University.

Feb 25, 1973

Named the Black College Player of the Year

Walter Payton wins African American College Player of the Year. He truly deserved it with all his accomplishments. This is really when NFL scouts realized him.

Feb 26, 1974

Named the Black College Player of the Year Again

Won African American College Player of the Year again. This was quite an honor considering it was his second time. This is when he was considered first round pick.

Jan 28, 1975

Walter Payton Selected 4th Pick in the NFL Draft

NFL Draft
Walter Payton is selected first round of the NFL draft. "The Sweetness" is released into the NFL. This would be the start of one of the best periods of time ever.

Jan 18, 1977

Won MVP of the NFL

MVP
Walter Payton wins the Most Valuable Player Award. The nickname "Sweetness" is given to him. Walter Payton is begginning to be considered a highlight reel.

Nov 20, 1977

Breaks Single Game Rushing Record

Walter Payton breaks single game rushing record. He rushed for 275 yards. He defeated O.J. Simpson by three yards.

Oct 7, 1984

Broke Rushing Record

Broke the carreer rushing record. He broke Jim Brown's record in Soldier Field in Chicago. He finished the game with 12,400 yards, 88 more than Jim Brown.

Jan 15, 1985

Won MVP of the NFL

Won the NFL MVP for the second time. Walter Payton is considered Hall of Fame. Walter Payton is truly "Sweetness"

Jan 26, 1986

Won Super Bowl XX

Super Bowl
The Chicago Bears win the XXth super bowl. Walter Payton had one of his worst games ever. The Bears defense held them to -19 yards in the first half.

Feb 18, 1987

Retired from the NFL

"Sweetness" retires from the NFL. The greatest halfback of that time ends his career. Payton was finished with over 12,400 yards.

Jul 26, 1988

Formed the Halas Peyton Foundation

This foundation is made to help inner-city kids. This is a very generous foundation. It was created by Walter Payton and George Halas began this commitee together.

Mar 15, 1993

Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

This is a great honor. Walter Payton really deserved this. He is and was considered one of the best NFL players ever. He is also a very good people person.

Mar 24, 1996

Inducted into College Football Hall of Fame

This is also a great honor. To think about how many great players have not even gone to this. Walter Payton is and was one of the best college football players ever.