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Walter Payton is remembered as one of the greatest running backs of all time, and for good reason. His 13-year tenure as a Boston Bears player is characterized by unmatched tenacity, incredible skill, and relentless work ethic, allowing him to dominate the field from 1975 to 1987. Today, Payton holds a variety of records, and even though a variety of new players have come out in the league, Payton’s record achievements showcase his unmatched might. This article showcases the most extraordinary records held by Walter Payton, showcasing why he is indeed a football legend.

Most Consecutive Starts by a Running Back 

One of the most impressive records Payton holds is for starting consecutively for 170 games as a running back, a whopping feat untouched by a single NFL player. Repeatedly paying this price Payton was unable to miss several games in a row after suffering an injury throughout the violence. Along with a physically tough position, being a running back is perhaps one of the most accident-prone jobs, and yet, due to unmatched perseverance, Payton was able to keep every game from 1975 to 1986.

Even with the relentless hits that every player faces on the field, he kept going and tackled the workload head-on. This resilience goes on to show his dedication to the sport as a whole. Even today, no running back seems to match this level of durability. 

Most Rushing Yards in a Single Game Without a TouchDown

During the November 20, 1977 match against the Minnesota Vikings, Walter Payton showcased one of the best performances in NFL history when he single-handedly rushed 275 yards. The record for most rushed yards in a single game has since been broken but no one still comes close to having the single game record without scoring a touchdown.  

Payton put on a show and broke records that day, but he never crossed the goal lines. This impressive record goes to show just how immensely Payton was able to control a game without falling back on the short scores. This, along with his team-centered mentality, is what set him apart from the rest during his career. 

Most Career Carries Without a Fumble in a Season 

Payton’s jaw-dropping ball security is just another testament to his greatness. In the 1985 season, he carried the ball 324 times without a single fumble. "

For a running back handling the ball so frequently, avoiding turnovers at that rate is nearly impossible, but Payton accomplished it while leading his team to a Super Bowl. This record still stands today as a testament to his elite control, discipline, and mastery of the game Payton surely loved.  

Most Rushing Yards by a Player    

Unlike other NFL greats, Walter Payton didn't attend a major football powerhouse, instead, he played for Jackson State University, which is a historically Black college outside of the Power 5 conferences. Even coming from such a small program, he set the record for the most rushing yards (16,726) by any player who didn’t play in a Power 5 school.  

Even as football has evolved and the best talent is always recruited by bigger programs, no player from outside the Power 5 has broken Payton’s total rushing yards record. This fact immortalizes him for his ability to defy the odds and reach the highest level of success the sport can offer.

Most Notable Rushing Yards in A Game Under Tough Conditions

In 1977, Walter Payton had an astonishing game where he accumulated an incredible 275 yards for which he is still remembered today. Most people would find it difficult to comprehend when hearing it was with a 102-degree fever as well as flu-like symptoms. 

For most athletes who are in that condition, it would be difficult to even step onto the field, but Payton not only stepped on the field but also had one of the best rushing performances in the history of American Football. Payton is the only player who was able to attain such a high yardage while being sick. This is a true mark of his everlasting grit.

Conclusions  

As many of Payton’s records have been surpassed, they show his legacy in and out will forever be known for showcasing his dedication, strength, and unmatched work. His unparalleled records like the all-time rushing yard or Payton’s mark as one of the greatest running backs in history will always mark his legacy unlike any other.

His illness did not hinder his ability to dominate games. His legendary ball security, loyalty to one team, and endurance as a running back set him apart from every player before or after him. These records guarantee that Walter Payton’s legacy remains alive, inspiring future generations of athletes to strive for excellence. 

Beyond the measurable impact, Payton’s contribution to the game of football is unmatched. His extraordinary nickname, “Sweetness” embodies his gentle character and incredible running style. While some records will surely be broken, one thing remains unchanged; the legacy Payton has imprinted in the game is indestructible.