Michael Payton facts for kids

Michael Payton (March 5, 1970 – September 27, 2018) was a talented American football quarterback. He played college football for the Marshall Thundering Herd. While there, he won the famous 1992 Walter Payton Award. After college, he played for a short time in the Arena Football League.

College Football Journey

Michael Payton was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He went to Central Dauphin East High School. A coach from Marshall University, George Chaump, noticed his talent. Michael first planned to play for Coach Chaump at another school. But Coach Chaump moved to Marshall University. He asked Michael to join him there.

Michael's father encouraged him to visit Marshall's campus. He said Marshall played in a higher college football league. Michael visited and loved the campus and the football program. He decided to attend Marshall. He later said he loved the place and the people.

Playing for Marshall

Coach Chaump left in 1989, but Michael stayed at Marshall. In 1990, as a sophomore, he threw for 2,409 yards. He also had 12 touchdowns.

In 1991, Michael threw for 3,392 yards and 26 touchdowns. He led Marshall to the NCAA Division I championship game. They finished as runners-up that season. Michael was named the Southern Conference Player of the Year. He was also West Virginia Athlete of the Year.

Winning the Walter Payton Award

In 1992, Michael had an amazing year. He threw for 3,610 yards and 31 touchdowns. He won the Walter Payton Award that year. This award goes to the best player in Division I-AA football. He was also named an All-American.

Michael led Marshall to the I-AA title game again. They defeated Youngstown State to win their first I-AA title. He was again named Southern Conference Player of the Year. Michael finished his college career as the Southern Conference's all-time passing leader. He had 9,411 career yards. He also scored 69 career touchdowns. At Marshall, he often played with future NFL star Troy Brown.

Professional Football Career

After college, Michael Payton had a short time with the Dallas Cowboys. He joined them as a free agent. However, a serious health issue with his foot cut his time short. He had to leave the team.

Later, Michael played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. This team is part of the Canadian Football League.

He also played one season in the Arena Football League. He was a back-up quarterback for the Florida Bobcats in 1996. He completed three passes that year.

Honors and Recognition

Michael Payton was honored for his great career. He was inducted into the Marshall University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999. In 2015, he was chosen for the College Football Hall of Fame. This is a huge honor for college football players.

Life Outside Football

Michael Payton cared about helping others. He worked with charities like Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE). He also supported Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. These groups help young people.

He also worked as a personal trainer and life coach. He helped people improve their lives.

Passing Away

Michael Payton passed away on September 27, 2018. He died from cancer. He had received many treatments for his illness.

Michael Payton Memorial Award

Michael Payton was a member of the Board of Advisors for the Mr. Pennsylvania Football program. To honor him, the Michael Payton Memorial Quarterback Award was created. This award is given to high school quarterbacks. They must show strong academic, athletic, and moral leadership. Michael's family presents the award each year.