The NFL has lost one of the greatest defensive players ever, as Chicago Bears icon and Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve “Mongo” McMichael passed away at 67, following a courageous fight with ALS. Diagnosed in January 2021, McMichael’s larger-than-life personality and ferocious play defined the Bears’ 1985 Super Bowl XX championship team.
His death, announced by Jarrett Payton, son of teammate Walter Payton, came hours after McMichael entered hospice care in Joliet, Illinois. “With deep sorrow, I share that Steve McMichael passed at 5:28 PM after a brave fight with #ALS, surrounded by loved ones,” Payton posted on X.
Born in Houston, Texas, McMichael’s journey to NFL stardom began as a third-round pick by the Patriots in 1980, only to be cut before finding his home with the Bears in 1981. A key piece of the “46” defense, he played a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993, racking up 92.5 sacks-second only to Richard Dent in Bears history.
“Steve was a total consummate team-first guy,” said teammate Dan Hampton, praising his relentless drive. His 95 career sacks rank fourth among defensive tackles all-time, earning him All-Pro honors in 1985 and 1987.
Chicago mourns his Hall of Famer
Nicknamed “Mongo” after the Blazing Saddles character, McMichael’s charisma shone off the field. From wrestling in WCW to running for mayor of Romeoville, Illinois, he was a Chicago fixture. “He was a Hall of Fame player… a kind and caring, gentle giant,” said former Bears receiver Tom Waddle on X. Despite ALS robbing him of speech and movement, McMichael’s spirit endured. His 2024 Hall of Fame induction, held at his Homer Glen home due to his condition, was a tearful celebration with teammates like Mike Singletary and Richard Dent. “That’s you baby, forever,” wife Misty said, unveiling his bust.
McMichael’s grit defined his ALS battle. After signing a “do not resuscitate” form in 2023, he tore it up upon learning he was a Hall of Fame semifinalist, determined to see his enshrinement. “He’s a fighter, he’s a battler,” said ex-Bears linebacker Ron Rivera in 2021. Misty, his caregiver, noted, “ALS attacks the organs and has attacked all his organs except his heart.” Fans on X hailed his legacy, with one calling him “one of the most courageous fighters you’ll ever see.” McMichael’s eight sacks in the 1985 season, including one in the Super Bowl rout of New England, remain etched in Bears lore.
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