In Memoriam: Gale Sayers, pro football Hall of Famer, dies at 77

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Gale Sayers (Michael Tolzmann. Cropped by User:Blueag9., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons | http://www.army.mil/-images/2008/01/05/11882/ | https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gale-Sayers-Jan052008-ArmyFBAwards.jpg)

Pro Football Hall of Famer and Chicago Bears Legend Gale Sayers has died Wednesday.

Gale Sayers has died

David Baker, president and CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, issued a statement on Sayers’ death:

“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. 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.

“The ‘Kansas Comet’ burst onto the scene in the National Football League and captured the attention of all of America. Despite playing only 68 NFL games because of an injury-shortened career, Gale was a clear-cut—and first-ballot—Hall of Famer for his accomplishments on the field and for the man of character he was in life.

“The entire Pro Football Hall of Fame family mourns the passing of Gale. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Ardie, and their entire family. We will forever keep his legacy alive to serve as inspiration for future generations. The Hall of Fame flag will fly at half-staff until he is laid to rest.”

Pro Football career

Sayers was one of the most respected and electrifying players in the NFL. During his incredible run with the Bears from 1965-1971, the running back epitomized the phrase “keeps defenders awake at night.”

He played in seven NFL seasons, seeing the field in just two games each of his final two years due to injury.

Sayers was 77 years old.