Jeff Pearlman claims to have interviewed over 600 people over the last couple years about Payton's professional and personal life, and his new book, "Sweetness" is what he claims is the result of such research.
I think the book is a self-serving attempt by Pearlman to make money and generate publicity. Walter Payton has been dead for 12 years and died of a terrible disease when he was only 45 years old. To bring these issues up and uncover dirt on Payton, when he is no longer able to defend himself, is shameless and serves only to hurt those who were closest to him for profit. Had the book been written to show the dangers of playing professional football about the damage done to the body, concussions, depression, drug dependence and how that affected a legendary player like Payton after the glory days were over, then it would serve a purpose.
A lot of players, after they retire, can’t walk, have long term memory issues, are financially devastated, addicted to drugs, and some have even committed suicide (i.e., Dave Duerson). When Payton played football, salaries weren’t what they are today. Even Terry Bradshaw took a job outside of football during the off-season as a car salesman to supplement his football income and that guy won 4 Super Bowls. Of course, that type of book wouldn’t sell as well as a book on a person’s secrets or dirt. I would think most people don’t feel sorry for those who have fame and glory and would trade places with them regardless of their problems. As a result, we have a book about how imperfect Payton was in his personal life and nothing more.
Pearlman, in my opinion, lacks taste, tact and should be shunned. Consider this my official shunning.
David
