A Tribute to Walter Payton

By: Robert Stedman

    I never knew Walter Payton personally, so I will refrain from glorifying him on that level.  What I can assume is that if his "of the field" personality resembled what he did on it--well, then, he's one amazing guy.  Take away all the accolades and you have a man with the love of a game.  A man who's heart should be placed in every athlete of any sport.  A man that my state (Mississippi) is proud to be associated with.  According to all who knew Walter, he was a class act.  Unfortunately, I never had that opportunity, but I'm convinced they speak the truth.  If you're a close friend like Mike Singletary or a family member, you're the ones who lost much more than the athlete.  I keep you in my prayers.

     What I lost is a legend that I placed on a pedestal as a child.  I will always be able to reminisce the magic that he displayed in the atmosphere of Soldiers Field.  When Mike Ditka discusses Walter, he always seems to mention his blocking achievements.  How he stuck his neck out and did whatever to win.  Unlike many of today's players, there was never the need for personal gratification.  Showboating was never a desire he practiced.  He played with his team and for his coaches, not the satisfaction of records and wealth.  There was never a seasonal holdout over contract disputes or finger pointing due to a bad game.  Walter Payton didn't have the power of Jim Brown or the quickness of Barry Sanders, but what he had was the complete package.  A smart runner with the vision to follow his blockers and the thirst to scratch out yardage.  He was the ideal football player with the respect and love of all his peers and coaches.  Walter's teammates were like his comrades in a World war.  A group of athletic friends that embodied one soul.  You will never hear one negative word concerning this football icon!

     When people die, it has become a norm to dig out all their positive attributes.  Where Walter is concerned, the charitable deeds were never unnoticed.  If you can breathe, you've either seen or experienced the ability of his heart.  What I will always remember is the gift he gave to us "Sunday football fanatics."  Thanks for everything Walter Payton, the "sweetness" of your memory will never be forgotten!