Herschel Walker was born on March 3, 1962, in Georgia. Growing up, he showed exceptional athleticism and strength. In high school, he had a rigorous workout routine that included doing 5,000 push-ups a day. This commitment to fitness laid the foundation for his successful football career.
After high school, Walker attended the University of Georgia, where he quickly made a name for himself as a standout running back. In 1982, he won the Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as the best player in college football. His impressive performance on the field set the stage for a successful transition to the NFL.
Walker was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1985 NFL Draft and made an immediate impact. He was a versatile player, known for his speed, power, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield. Over the course of his NFL career, he amassed over 8,000 rushing yards and nearly 6,000 receiving yards.
In 1989, Walker was involved in a trade that would go down in history as "The Great Train Robbery." This trade, which involved 18 players, set a record for the most players traded in NFL history. Walker's versatility and skill set made him a valuable asset that teams were willing to trade for.
Off the field, Walker faced personal struggles. He was married to Cindy DeAngelis Walker from 1983-2002, and the couple had a son named Christian. Despite his success on the field, Walker dealt with mental health issues, including dissociative identity disorder. He has been open about his struggles and has become an advocate for mental health awareness.
After retiring from the NFL, Walker continued to stay involved in football. He returned to the Dallas Cowboys for his final two seasons in 1996 and 1997, playing alongside legendary running back Emmitt Smith. Walker's impact on the game was lasting, and his legacy as a versatile and talented player lives on in the annals of football history.
Throughout his life, Herschel Walker has shown resilience and determination in the face of challenges. His journey from high school standout to college star to NFL pro has been marked by hard work and perseverance. Today, he continues to advocate for mental health awareness and remains a symbol of strength and resilience for many.