I was a huge fan of the Bears in the '80's, before I wised up and learned the history behind the Packers, and I watched the Bears every time they were on tv, which at that time was about every weekend. The '85 Supper Bowl was the first SB that I remember watching in its entirety - I still wish sweetness would have scored in that game, but everyone knows the role he played in getting them there. I also respect the role model that Payton was, and still is, great character, and morals, a true inspiration to fans of the game.

 

But, in fairness, I did not see Jim Brown play live, however, I have seen many clips and read a lot about his career. I think he was a very superior player, and had much ability, he just had to many demons to deal with and his career was cut short, I would have loved to see him play ten years and see what his career stats would have looked like.

Though I was young I remember watching Jim Brown play. He was a great athlete. When we played playground ball on Sunday we all wanted to be Jim Brown. The most amazing thing about Brown was that even though he was a punishing back, he never missed a game in 9 years.

He did deal with some demons as you mentioned but i think most were after his retirement.

You were right about Peyton being class act. He was a great role model.

Walter Peyton, better receiver, blocker and he could throw the ball if needed.

Brown was also an excellent receiver and threw 3 TD passes in his career. He also returned kickoffs and I think he kicked FG's and PAT's

He was a tremendous athlete as he was a star football ,lacrosse and basketball player in college.

For those who chose Payton, I would like to know how many actually saw both play.

 

 

I've only seen the best of Jim Brown (highlights), but I watched Walter Payton day-in and day-out.

Jim Brown was the toughest running back to ever play. We will probably never see another RB like him again. It's a different game today, but he is the best of all time.

J Brown

Payton

Brown.

Jim Brown.

He has to be the most difficult back ever to bring down. He could drag 2 or 3 defenders another 8 yards after being tackled.

He was a tremendous athlete as he was a star football ,lacrosse and basketball player in college.

 

While I don't remember him being a basketball player, calling him a "star" lacrosse player may be an understatement. Many still consider him to be the greatest college lacrosse player ever.

The question was which one would you rather have today... I would have to go with Walter Payton, by far. Payton was geared for the modern version of the NFL. He was a great blocker, reciever, and passer when necessary an incredible leader on and off the field. Brown was great in his time in his day. I seriously doubt Brown in 2007 would have been that great of a player. On the other hand I think Payton could still be viable today.

While I don't remember him being a basketball player, calling him a "star" lacrosse player may be an understatement. Many still consider him to be the greatest college lacrosse player ever.

As a Soph. at Syracuse he was the 2nd leading scorer on the team with a 15ppg average and averaged 38ppg as a high school player.

Jim Brown. Not even close.

Walter P.

I think Sweetness is the most determined player to ever wear a jersey. A class act and work ethic, determination, and ability make him the best

Brown is the better running back, but Payton is not far behind.

 

Payton was a better locker room guy and a better person.