Joe Montana

by Adam Woog

Published 1 July 2008
Nicknamed 'Joe Cool' for his ability to remain calm under pressure, Joe Montana's career highlights are staples of NFL highlight films. When Montana retired, his career passing rating was 92.3, the highest at the time. Although his record has since been surpassed by Steve Young, Peyton Manning, and Kurt Warner, he will forever be remembered for one of the most notable plays in NFL history that is now simply known as 'The Catch' - the winning touchdown reception in the 1982 NFC Championship game against the Dallas Cowboys. The only player ever to win three Super Bowl MVP awards, Montana was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Now retired, he donates his time to charity and produces wine under the Montagia label.

Walter Payton

by Adam Woog

Published 30 December 2008
One of the greatest all-around running backs in NFL history, Walter Payton set several league records, including career rushing yards (16,726), most games rushing for 100 or more yards (77), and rushing touchdowns (110), during his 13-year career. Nicknamed ""Sweetness"" by his Chicago Bears teammates because of his friendly disposition, Payton was a nine-time Pro Bowler and three-time NFL MVP, and helped lead the Bears to their only Super Bowl win, dominating the New England Patriots 46-10 in Super Bowl XX. Tragically, Payton was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in February 1999 and died that November. His philanthropic work continues through organizations such as the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation, which helps abused, neglected, or underprivileged children in Illinois.