Steve McMichael: Bears Legend & Hall Of Famer In Hospice Care
Could a man be both a fearsome presence on the field and a beacon of resilience off it? Steve McMichael, the Chicago Bears legend, proved that this duality was not only possible, but also the very essence of his legacy.
News broke recently that Steve McMichael, the former Chicago Bears defensive lineman, is entering hospice care. This announcement comes after a courageous battle against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a battle that, remarkably, he fought long enough to witness his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. McMichael's journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, offers a powerful testament to the human spirit.
Born on October 17, 1957, in Houston, Texas, McMichael's life was shaped by early experiences, including his parents' separation when he was just two years old. His mother, Betty, later married E.V. McMichael, an oil company executive, who became a father figure to the young Steve. This early foundation set the stage for the strong, resilient character that would define his life and career.
McMichaels athletic journey began in high school, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track and field. His raw talent and athleticism caught the attention of college scouts, leading him to the University of Texas, where he became a standout defensive lineman. After a successful college career, he was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 1980 NFL Draft. However, his impact was truly felt when he joined the Chicago Bears in 1981.
In a league of giants, McMichael stood out not just for his imposing physique, but for his relentless motor and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Known as "Mongo" and "Ming the Merciless," he carved out a reputation as one of the most feared defensive players in the game. McMichael played 13 seasons with the Bears, from 1981 to 1993, and his name became synonymous with the team's dominant 46 defense, which propelled the Bears to their only Super Bowl title in 1985. He was a key member of that championship team.
His impact extended beyond the gridiron; he also explored the world of professional wrestling and even ran for mayor of Romeoville, Illinois. These ventures highlighted McMichaels charismatic personality and his willingness to embrace new challenges. He always had a boisterous persona and a willingness to say whatever was on his mind.
In 2021, McMichael was diagnosed with ALS, a devastating neurodegenerative disease. The diagnosis marked the beginning of a new battle, one fought with the same determination and grit he displayed on the football field. Despite the debilitating effects of the illness, McMichael faced his challenges with unwavering courage, inspiring countless fans and fellow athletes.
His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame was a particularly poignant moment. The ceremony was brought to his home, a testament to his enduring legacy and the respect he commanded. It was a fitting tribute to a man who had given so much to the sport and to the fans. Though he couldn't make it to the Hall of Fame, the Hall of Fame came to him.
The news of his passing brought immense sadness to the NFL community. The league and his former teammates and fans mourned the loss of a true icon. The Chicago Bears organization expressed their grief and offered condolences to his family, friends, and teammates. His courageous battle against ALS inspired us all.
McMichael leaves behind a legacy of grit, determination, and heart. He was more than just a football player; he was a symbol of resilience. His impact on the Chicago Bears, the NFL, and the wider community will be remembered for generations to come.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steve McMichael |
| Date of Birth | October 17, 1957 |
| Place of Birth | Houston, Texas |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 270 lbs (122 kg) |
| NFL Draft | 1980 / Round: 3 / Pick: 73 |
| NFL Teams | New England Patriots (1980), Chicago Bears (19811993), Green Bay Packers (1994) |
| Position | Defensive Tackle |
| Games Played | 191 |
| Sacks | 92.5 (ranks second in Bears history) |
| Pro Bowls | 2 |
| Super Bowl Champion | Super Bowl XX (1985) |
| Pro Football Hall of Fame | Class of 2024 |
| Died | May 16, 2024 |
| Cause of Death | Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) |
| Nicknames | "Mongo", "Ming the Merciless" |
| Professional Wrestling | WCW Wrestler |
| Website for Reference | Pro Football Hall of Fame |
McMichael's impact on the game was immense. He was a key member of the Chicago Bears' legendary 46 defense, which spearheaded their dominant run in the 1980s, culminating in the Super Bowl XX victory. His relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks and his ability to stop the run made him a nightmare for offensive lines. He consistently played at a high level throughout his career, earning two Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as one of the best defensive tackles in the league. The man known as Mongo left a trail of battered and beaten opponents during a Hall of Fame career with the Chicago Bears.
The Bears recognized McMichaels exceptional talent and leadership qualities. After an injury to one of their starting defensive linemen, the Chicago Bears brought in Steve McMichael to back up Hall of Famer Alan Page during his final season. The team had found the quintessential ironman to bolster their defensive unit, a player who would go on to become a cornerstone of their success.
Beyond the gridiron, McMichael's personality and charisma made him a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike. He was known for his boisterous nature and his willingness to speak his mind. He was a character as big as any for the '85 Bears, a team loaded with personalities. McMichael, the man who always had a boisterous persona and a willingness to say whatever was on his mind, would have delivered a Pro Football Hall of Fame induction speech to remember.
In his post-football career, McMichael transitioned into professional wrestling and even pursued political aspirations, running for mayor of Romeoville. These diverse endeavors showcased his versatile nature and his drive to remain active and engaged.
His battle with ALS began in 2021, a diagnosis that would change his life forever. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a devastating neurological condition that progressively weakens the muscles, eventually leading to paralysis. Despite the immense physical challenges, McMichael faced his illness with courage and grace, inspiring those around him. His courageous battle against ALS inspired us all.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which came to his home in Homer Glen, Illinois, was a deeply moving occasion. Hall of Fame president Jim Porter presented McMichael with his gold jacket and bust as part of the Class of 2024's enshrinement ceremony. A video board displayed an image of Steve McMichael during his induction, a final tribute to his legendary status.
The NFL community, including the Chicago Bears, expressed their heartfelt condolences upon his passing. The news of McMichael's death brought immense sadness, but it also prompted an outpouring of tributes and memories from fans, former teammates, and the sports world. The NFL is heartbroken to hear of the passing of super bowl legend. His legacy lives on, not only in the record books but also in the hearts of those who were touched by his remarkable life.
Steve McMichael's legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, courage, and the enduring spirit of the human heart. He was a force of nature, but the only thing bigger than his personality was his heart. He went from misfit to perfect fit the new england patriots drafted mcmichael for that intensity, taking him in the third round with the 73rd overall pick of the 1980 nfl draft. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and teammates. Steve 'mongo' mcmichael was a bears legend.
