Eaton was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the fourth round of the 1982 NBA Draft, but was cut before the season began. He then played in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) for the Montana Golden Nuggets and the Idaho Stampede before signing with the Jazz in 1984.
Eaton was an imposing presence in the paint, standing at 7'4" and weighing 280 pounds. He was an excellent shot blocker, averaging 3.5 blocks per game for his career. He also had a knack for rebounding, averaging 8.0 rebounds per game for his career.
Eaton was a key part of the Jazz's success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1985 and 1989) and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Team four times (1985, 1986, 1988, and 1989). He was also a two-time All-Star (1989 and 1990).
Eaton retired in 1993 after nine seasons with the Jazz. He finished his career with averages of 8.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game. He was inducted into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame in 1997 and his number 53 was retired by the Jazz in 2000.
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