The Best Draft Picks by the Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears were founded in 1919 and have won nine NFL Championships to date, with only one coming in the Super Bowl era. the Bears have the most regular season wins in NFL history and the most inducted members in the Hall of Fame. the best draft picks by the Chicago Bears are Gale Sayers, Dick Butkus and Walter Payton.

No. 3: Gale Sayers, RB, (1965 – 1971)

Gale Sayers was drafted by the Bears in the 1965 NFL Draft with the fourth overall pick. the running back scored 22 touchdowns in his rookie season, which is an NFL record. he was named Rookie of the Year that season. the Hall of Famer was named to four Pro Bowls and five All-Pro selections. he was the NFL rushing champion for 1966 and 1969. Sayers wasn’t just great at running the ball, but exceptional as a return man. he has the highest career kickoff return average with 30.56 yards.

No. 2: Dick Butkus, LB, (1965 – 1973)

Dick Butkus was drafted in the 1965 NFL Draft with the third overall selection, one pick ahead of Sayers. the Hall of Famer was twice named the NEA NFL Defensive Player of the Year, in 1969 and 1970. Butkus’ impact was felt quite early, as he led the Bears in tackles, interceptions and forced fumbles in his rookie season. the eight-time Pro Bowler was known for ripping the ball from the ball carrier. he was one of the most feared men in his football era, with his most productive season coming in 1970. that season, he had 132 tackles, 84 assists, 3 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles. he finished his career with 1,020 tackles, 22 interceptions and 27 fumble recoveries.

No. 1: Walter Payton, RB, (1975 – 1987)

For 13 seasons, Walter Payton played for the Chicago Bears after being drafted fourth overall in the 1975 NFL Draft. In terms of yardage, he is quite possibly the greatest running back to have played the game. he was named MVP of the league twice and was named to nine Pro Bowls. he won Super Bowl XX with the 1985 Chicago Bears. he once held records for the most career rushing yards, touchdowns and all-purpose yards, along with many other records. Walter Payton was never one to go down without a fight, and if you really brought him to the ground, it must have been an excellent tackle. he finished his career with 16,726 rushing yards and 110 touchdowns.

Walter Payton was not just a great player on the field but an even greater person off it. Payton didn’t celebrate touchdowns, but instead always handed the ball to the officials or his teammates. This just indicates the class and the professionalism of Walter Payton. the best player drafted by the Chicago Bears is Walter Payton.

The Best Draft Picks by the Chicago Bears