🔥 Trending Jarrett Payton's Career Move: What's Next After WGN?

Jarrett Payton is an American former professional football running back, television host, motivational speaker, businessman, and philanthropist, widely recognized as the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Walter Payton ¹⁴⁸. He has built a diverse career spanning professional sports, media, and charitable work.

Early Life and Football Career

Born on December 26, 1980, Jarrett Payton followed in his father's footsteps by pursuing a career in football ¹⁸. He played as a running back and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the NFL's Tennessee Titans. His professional football career also included stints with the Amsterdam Admirals in NFL Europe and the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League (CFL) ¹⁸.

Media and Public Persona

After his football career, Payton transitioned into media, becoming a prominent sports anchor and television host. He is known for his role as the host of WGN's "GN Sports" program and as a sports anchor for the WGN TV Evening News ⁴. He joined WGN-TV in 2015 and served as a sports anchor and co-anchor for "GN Sports" for ten years ³⁶.

Recent Career Developments

On Thursday, July 30, 2026, Jarrett Payton announced his departure from his sports anchor role at WGN after a decade with the station ³⁶⁷. While stepping down from his full-time anchor duties, WGN stated that Payton would be evolving his role with the network, emphasizing his continued connection to Chicago as "one of Chicago's Very Own" ⁷.

Philanthropy and Business Ventures

Payton is actively involved in philanthropic efforts, dedicating time to The Walter & Connie Payton Foundation. This foundation works to assist less fortunate individuals, providing stability and opportunities for them to live with dignity ². He also leads The Jarrett Payton Foundation ⁵. Beyond his media and charitable work, Payton is also a businessman and motivational speaker ⁴⁸.