The running back Brian Piccolo played just four seasons in the NFL, mostly as a backup to Bears Hall of Famer Gale Sayers in the 1960s. But his story and spirit – Piccolo died of cancer in 1970, less than a year after his final NFL game, at age 26 – were immortalized the following year in “Brian's Song.” The 1971 emotional television movie showcased Piccolo’s courage while making clear the preciousness of life. The film starred James Caan as Piccolo and Billy Dee Williams as Sayers, who were rare interracial roommates and developed a deep friendship. The real-life Piccolo, who grew up in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. and led the nation in rushing his senior season at Wake Forest, was undrafted out of college yet dreamed of becoming a great NFL back. “He has the heart of a giant,” Sayers said during a speech in May 1970, when Piccolo was sick. “I love Brian Piccolo, and I’d like all of you to love him too.”