This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 5/31/2012.
“Sweetness" is remembered as one of the most prolific running backs in the history of the NFL. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selectee and once held the league's record for most career rushing yards, touchdowns, carries, yards from scrimmage and all-purpose yards. He was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993. 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. On the left front tail is the "Wilson" manufacturer's tag with the size "44." The player number "34" has been screened onto the front, back, and both sleeves. On the back of the jersey is a navy nameplate with the player name "Payton" screened on. All of the letters and numbers are white with an orange outline. The tagging, numbers, and letters are consistent with other 1977 Chicago Bears game-used jerseys. On the front numbers is a black autograph reading "Chicago Bears Sweetness Walter Payton" and rating a near 10. This jersey was obtained originally by a gentleman who made a contribution to the Brian Piccolo Cancer Fund. It was previously sold incorrectly as attributed to a record breaking game. However, this is a good example of a Payton gamer. The jersey is properly tagged, was presented to us as game-used and in our opinion, shows appropriate use. Accompanied by a LOA from JSA for the signature.