Brian Piccolo: Career Overview

Career History

• Team: Chicago Bears (CHI)
• Years Active: 1966 - 1969

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

• Brian Piccolo was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1965 NFL Draft.
• He played as a running back for the Bears from 1966 to 1969, contributing to the team during a challenging period.
• Piccolo was known for his hard work and determination on the field, earning respect from teammates and coaches alike.
• He had a significant impact on the team despite being a relatively lesser-known player in the league.
• In 1969, Piccolo's career was tragically cut short when he was diagnosed with cancer.
• His battle with the illness and his story of friendship with teammate Gale Sayers became widely known, leading to the film "Brian's Song," which portrayed their bond and Piccolo's courageous fight against cancer.

Legacy

• Brian Piccolo passed away on June 16, 1970, at the age of 26.
• His legacy continues to live on, not only through the film but also through various charitable efforts that focus on cancer research and support.
• In 1970, the Chicago Bears honored him by establishing the Brian Piccolo Award, which is given annually to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of courage, loyalty, teamwork, dedication, and sense of humor.

Brian Piccolo remains an inspirational figure in the history of the NFL, remembered for his tenacity on the field and his fight against cancer off it.