Gale Sayers died Wednesday. Considered one of the greatest players in NFL history, Sayers grew up in Omaha after his family moved here when he was a child. He graduated from Central High School, then starred at Kansas before a Hall of Fame career with the Chicago Bears.
Here's a collection of quotes remembering the great Gale Sayers:
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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell: "The NFL family lost a true friend today with the passing of Gale Sayers. Gale was one of the finest men in NFL history and one of the game's most exciting players. Gale was an electrifying and elusive runner who thrilled fans every time he touched the ball. He earned his place as a first-ballot Hall of Famer. We will also forever remember Gale for his inspiration and kindness. Gale's quiet unassuming demeanor belied his determination, competitiveness and compassion."
Chicago Bulls great Scottie Pippen: "Gale Sayers was someone who I admired long before I arrived in Chicago. I loved his approach to the game and of course, how he played it. He inspired me to be great in a city that loves sports like no other."
Former Oklahoma and NFL running back Spencer Tillman: "We've lost another friend. ... Few flashed as bright in so little time as a pro."
Actor Billy Dee Williams, who portrayed Sayers in the movie "Brian's Song": "My heart is broken over the loss of my dear friend, Gale Sayers. Portraying Gale in Brian's song was a true honor and one of the (highlights) of my career. He was an extraordinary human being with the kindest heart."
Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard: "Almost one year ago to the day, I flew up to Chicago to receive the Gale Sayers Award and be inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame. I was moved to tears as stories were told about his greatness. An honor to be mentioned in the same breath. We lost a giant today."
Pro Football Hall of Fame President and CEO David Baker: "The entire Pro Football Hall of Fame family mourns the passing of Gale Sayers. ... We will forever keep his legacy alive to serve as inspiration for future generations."
Chicago Bears Chairman George H. McCaskey: "Football fans know well Gale's many accomplishments on the field: a rare combination of speed and power as the game's most electrifying runner, a dangerous kick returner, his comeback from a serious knee injury to lead the league in rushing, and becoming the youngest player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. People who weren't even football fans came to know Gale through the TV movie 'Brians' Song,' about his friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo. Fifty years later, the movie's message that brotherhood and love needn't be defined by skin color, still resonates. Coach Halas said it best, when presenting Gale for induction at the Hall of Fame: 'His like will never be seen again.'"
Chicago Bears teammate and Hall of Famer Dick Butkus: "Will miss a great friend who helped me become the player I became because after practicing and scrimmage against Gale I knew I could play against anybody. We lost one of the best Bears ever and more importantly we lost a great person."
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly: "Wichita native and 'Kansas Comet' Gale Sayers was one of the best to play. He was more than just a football legend — he was a kind, inspirational and compassionate man. We lost an extraordinary Kansan today."
Hall of Fame running back Eric Dickerson: "The Kansas Comet was one of the most underrated (running backs) of all time and personally one of my favorites. Prayers for Gale and his family."
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot: "Gale Sayers did many great things over the course of his life. One of the best was his investment in helping Black children get adopted. He helped bring joy to a lot of families, including mine."
Kansas Athletic Director Jeff Long: "One of the greatest, if not the greatest, players to ever wear a Kansas football uniform, Gale Sayers was a trailblazer on and off the field. ... His achievements on the field are well documented and he certainly left his mark on the KU football and NFL record books, but Gale Sayers was far more than a football player, he is one of the finest men to ever grace our program." Long also said a statue of Sayers will be unveiled at the KU football game on Oct. 3.
Kansas football coach Les Miles: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of Kansas great Gale Sayers. I cherished every opportunity to watch him play and I am privileged to coach in the stadium that he once played in. He had a remarkable impact on the game of football and the University of Kansas, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith: "Always a sad day when we lose one of the best. My deepest condolences to the family of Gale Sayers. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations."
Hall of Fame running back Jerome Bettis: "I am saddened to hear of the passing of Gale Sayers. He was a true legend on and off the football field. He inspired me to be a great running back, but more importantly a great teammate, leader, husband and father. Your legacy will forever live on."