Bears legend Gale Sayers passes away at 77

Some sad news coming out of the football world.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame confirmed that legendary Chicago Bears running back Gale Sayers has died after enduring a lengthy battle with dementia. He was 77 at the time of his death.

“He was the very essence of a team player — quiet, unassuming and always ready to compliment a teammate for a key block,” said Hall of Fame President David Baker.

“Gale was an extraordinary man who overcame a great deal of adversity during his NFL career and life.”

Known on the field as “The Kansas Comet” spent his entire seven-year career with the Bears from 1965-1971. During that limited time, he managed to make four Pro Bowls, was a five-time First-team All-Pro and a two-time NFL rushing yards leader.

He also holds at least 20 Bears franchise records in a variety of categories, including most rushing touchdowns in a season, and most all-purpose yards in a single season.