The Crusader Newspaper Group

Chicago Bears honor football legend and hero Walter Payton with new statue

By Joseph Phillips, Sports writer, The Chicago Crusader

In honor and celebration of their 100th year anniversary as the National Football League’s Charter Franchise, “the Chicago Bears,” honored legendary hero and Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton with a brand new statue in front of the concrete staircases of the
historic Soldier Field on Tuesday afternoon, September 3, 2019.

With the unveiling of the statue, the organization gave the fans and the city exactly what they’ve been waiting for prior to their match up with long time hated rivals Green Bay Packers on Thursday night to kick off their 100th NFL season.

Created by sculptor Chad Fischer, the statue stands 12 feet high and weigh 3,000 pounds and will greet fans heading into the south entrance of the stadium of Soldier field.

Payton’s statue depicts him in his signature running back stance, complete with his uniform and a football in his hand.

His nickname “Sweetness” is also below his name on the statue.

walter payton statue
Walter Payton statue unveiled Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at Soldier Field on Chicago’s Lakefront.

Payton spent his playing career with the Bears from 1975 to 1989 and held many NFL records when he retired in 1987. He entered the Hall of Fame and had his jersey number retired by the organization in 1993.

In addition to the unveiling of his statue, the Super Bowl champion’s family was there to help with the presentation and said the honor would have meant so much to him.

“I know Walter would be humbled to have this honor bestowed upon him, just as Jarrett, Brittney and our entire family are,” Connie Payton, Walter’s widow said. “To say that I am enthusiastic about unveiling this statue to the city of Chicago is an understatement. What a proud moment for all of us and the city of Chicago. We’re not just Chicago Bears fans, we’re family.”

Payton will go down in history as one of the greatest running backs who ever lived.

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