NFL Hall of Famer and beloved Chicago Bears running back Gale Sayers has passed away at the age of 77. Pro Football Hall of Fame CEO and President David Baker shared the news in a statement Wednesday morning.
“All those who love the game of football mourn the loss of one of the greatest to ever play this Game with the passing of Chicago Bears legend Gale Sayers,” Baker said in a statement released Wednesday. “He was the very essence of a team player — quiet, unassuming and always ready to compliment a teammate for a key block. Gale was an extraordinary man who overcame a great deal of adversity during his NFL career and life.”
Hall of Famer and @ChicagoBears Legend Gale Sayers has passed away at the age of 77.
More: https://t.co/lJti7R3FYL#HOFForever pic.twitter.com/yujzMnhry3
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) September 23, 2020
During his brief seven-year career, Sayers rushed for 4,956 yards and 39 touchdowns with an amazing 5.0 yards-per-carry average. He caught 112 passes for 1,307 yards and nine touchdowns.
