This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/2/2015
Chosen in the first round, fourth overall, of the 1975 NFL draft by the perennial doormat Chicago Bears, highly-touted running back Walter Payton endured some growing pains as his team continued to flail about but show improvement. However the 1977 season, the year Payton wore this gamer into battle, the Bears showed signs that a dynasty was on the horizon, finishing the campaign in a tie with the Minnesota Vikings at 9-5 and earning a wild card berth. Payton established himself as the league's premier rusher, topping all running backs with 1,852 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 5.5 yards per carry. The Wilson size 44 label is stitched onto the front left tail and the jersey exhibits good game use. On the front numbers is a black marker autograph reading, "Chicago Bears Sweetness Walter Payton." LOAs from Grey Flannel and PSA/DNA.