NFL teams
ESPN.com news services 10y

Herschel Walker: Can still play in NFL

NFL, Buffalo Bills

An NFL running back at 52 years old? 

Herschel Walker says it wouldn't be a problem for him.

"I can play in the NFL today," Walker told USA Today Sports. "I couldn't take every snap. But running backs nowadays don't play every down. Now they send in the choir section.

"Physically, I can still do it."

Walker, who said he's busy with several business ventures, isn't thinking of a comeback.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame website lists Jim Thorpe at 40 as the oldest running back to play in an NFL game. Thorpe played his last down for the Chicago Cardinals in 1928.

A physical specimen known for his grueling training regimen, Walker retired from the NFL after the 1997 season. He later took up mixed martial arts, winning both of his fights, the last coming in January 2011. 

Part of arguably the most lopsided trade in NFL history, when he was dealt in 1989 from the Dallas Cowboys to the Minnesota Vikings for five players and six draft picks, Walker rushed for 8,225 yards in his career.

In his interview with USA Today, the 1982 Heisman Trophy winner also embraced the idea of Donald Trump's interest in buying the Buffalo Bills.

"He would be a great owner, and a credible owner," said Walker, who starred for Trump's New Jersey Generals of the USFL in the 1980s.

"People can think what they want to think about Jerry Jones -- he's a terrible general manager, but he's a great owner. He has done a tremendous job in marketing his team to keep it relevant. I think that's the same thing Donald Trump would do with the Buffalo Bills."

Walker also said in the interview he wouldn't rule out joining forces with Trump if he takes over the Bills.

"I've got another good personality that could do some other things," he said.

^ Back to Top ^