NFL legend Gale Sayers dead at 77

Chicago Bears legend and NFL Hall of Famer Gale Sayers died Wednesday at the age of 77.

Sayers, dubbed the “Kansas Comet” and considered one of the most talented running backs to ever play professional football during his relatively short career from 1965-1971, was diagnosed with dementia in 2012. An official cause of death was not provided.

“All those who love the game of football mourn the loss of one of the greatest to ever play this game with the passing of Chicago Bears legend Gale Sayers,” Pro Football Hall of Fame President David Baker said in a statement. “He was the very essence of a team player — quiet, unassuming and always ready to compliment a teammate for a key block. Gale was an extraordinary man who overcame a great deal of adversity during his NFL career and life.

“The ‘Kansas Comet’ burst onto the scene in the National Football League and captured the attention of all of America. Despite playing only 68 NFL games because of an injury-shortened career, Gale was a clear-cut — and first-ballot — Hall of Famer for his accomplishments on the field and for the man of character he was in life,” Baker said.

“The entire Pro Football Hall of Fame family mourns the passing of Gale. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Ardie, and their entire family. We will forever keep his legacy alive to serve as inspiration for future generations. The Hall of Fame flag will fly at half-staff until he is laid to rest,” he added.

Sayers was portrayed by Billy Dee Williams in the critically acclaimed 1971 movie “Brian’s Song,” the real-life story of the running back’s close friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo, who died of testicular cancer at age 26.