Do you recognize the name Gale Sayers? He’s a professional football player born in Wichita, Kansas, who advanced his career at the University of Kansas. Becoming known as “the Kansas Comet,” Sayers was a memorable player while at KU… as a freshman, in a scrimmage against the varsity players, he ran 75 yards for a touchdown! Eventually his skills landed him a spot on the Chicago Bears’ roster.
As a member of the Chicago Bears, Sayers was named the NFL’s Rookie of the Year and Outstanding Running Back. In the 1960s, through 1971, he stood out as an offensive player, especially in the four Pro Bowls he played. Due to injuries, he retired from the NFL around 1971/72. At the time, he was the NFL’s all-time leader in kickoff returns.
If you ever saw the movie “Brian’s Song,” from 1971, Sayers’ interracial friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo (who lost a battle with cancer) was the subject of that touching made-for-TV movie.
Interestingly, after Sayers retired from the NFL, he came back to KU to further his education, completing several degrees. He also served as KU’s assistant athletic director for four years in the 1970s.
In 1977, at age 34, Sayers was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame– and he was the youngest inductee in the Hall’s history at the time.
In the 1980s, Sayers built his own tech company serving Fortune 1000 companies. So, not only was he a great football player, but also a successful business owner who did well long after his time on the field.
These days, Sayers is well-regarded among football legends… And now you can literally get his autograph…
Framewoods Gallery sells a special edition print, hand-signed by Jayhawk legend Gale Sayers. You can get it, here.
Framewoods Gallery is your “go-to” place for authentic Jayhawks and KU memorabilia. Call 1-800-399-5199 for more info.
