Chicago Bears | Hall of Famer | #34 | Sweetness | Walter Payton

On January 28, 1975, the Chicago Bears selected Payton in the first round (4th overall) of the 1975 NFL Draft.

During the 1976 NFL Chicago Bears season, Payton rushed over 1,000 yards and scored thirteen touchdowns for the Bears. His momentum continued into the 1977 Chicago Bears season, where his performance earned him numerous awards, most notably NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award. He also earned his first Pro Bowl invitation, where he was named the 1977 Pro Bowl MVP. Other highlights from the 1977 Chicago Bears season include rushing over 275 yards against the Minnesota Vikings while combating a case of the flu. Furthermore, Payton’s exploits on the football field had not only earned attention as a Chicago Bear running back, but also as a blocker, receiver, emergency punter, and quarterback for the Bears.

Payton's unique and distinctive running style was also a product of his desire to avoid injury. He would be known as the Chicago Bears, "Sweetness", and Sweetness became his nickname throughout his career. He ran by planting only the balls and toes of his feet on the turf, and keeping his heels elevated. In the event of a tackle, this would allow his legs to move as if he was hit from the side, protecting the connective tissues in his knees from injury. This stance necessitated extremely strong leg biceps and gluteal muscles, as he had to swing his legs from his hips in order to run. (Exerpts from Chicago Bears, Walter Payton Wikipedia)

In 1995, the Aurora City Council voted 10-0 to permit former Chicago Bear Walter Payton, NFL Hall of Famer, and his partners Scott Ascher, Pam Ascher and Mark Alberts to redevelop the Roundhouse.

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