What's happened
Steve McMichael, former Chicago Bears star and Pro Football Hall of Famer, died at 67 after battling ALS. Known for his role in the Bears' 1985 Super Bowl-winning team, McMichael was also a professional wrestler. His legacy includes a franchise record of 191 consecutive games played.
What's behind the headline?
Legacy and Impact
- Football Career: McMichael's contributions to the Bears, especially during their dominant 1985 season, solidified his status as a franchise legend. His 92.5 career sacks rank second in Bears history.
- Cultural Influence: Beyond football, McMichael's transition to professional wrestling showcased his larger-than-life persona, making him a recognizable figure in both sports.
- Health Awareness: His battle with ALS has brought attention to the disease, highlighting the struggles faced by athletes post-career. This will likely encourage discussions on health support for former players.
- Community Reaction: The outpouring of tributes from fans and former teammates reflects his impact on and off the field, emphasizing the emotional connection he fostered with the Chicago community.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, McMichael's death was confirmed after a long battle with ALS, a disease he publicly discussed in 2021. The Guardian noted his brash personality and successful wrestling career, stating he was a natural fit for the sport. AP News highlighted his record of 191 consecutive games and his induction into the Hall of Fame, emphasizing his lasting legacy in the NFL. Each source paints a picture of a multifaceted individual whose contributions extended beyond football, resonating with fans and the sports community alike.
How we got here
McMichael was diagnosed with ALS in April 2021, a degenerative disease affecting muscle control. He played 15 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Chicago Bears, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.
Go deeper
- What were McMichael's most notable achievements?
- How did McMichael's career impact the NFL?
- What is ALS and how does it affect athletes?
More on these topics
-
Stephen Douglas "Mongo" McMichael is a former American football defensive tackle in the National Football League, former professional wrestler, commentator, and head coach.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
Illinois is a state in the Midwestern and Great Lakes regions of the United States. It has the fifth largest gross domestic product,
the sixth largest population, and the 25th largest land area of all U.S. states. Illinois has been noted as a microcosm of
-
The Chicago Bears are a professional American football team based in Chicago. The Bears compete in the National Football League as a member club of the league's National Football Conference North division.
-
Chicago, officially the City of Chicago, is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Illinois, and the third-most-populous city in the United States.