When Dan Hampton joined the Bears as a first-round draft pick in 1979, Walter Payton was all the rage going into his fifth season.
Someone else caught Hampton's attention right away, a veteran who was still hobbled somewhat from a previous Achilles tendon injury, Doug Buffone. The rookie quickly looked up to Buffone and although their careers intersected in only that one season, they remained lifelong friends.
Buffone died Monday at his Chicago home. He was 70.
Hampton was saddened recalling the start of his friendship with Buffone.
"Everybody knew who Walter was, but I was fascinated with this dude," Hampton said.