NFL Hall of Famer Steve "Mongo" McMichael Dies at 67 A Legacy of Grit, Greatness, and Heart

 

NFL Hall of Famer Steve "Mongo" McMichael Dies at 67: A Legacy of Grit, Greatness, and Heart

The NFL confirmed Wednesday that Steve "Mongo" McMichael, a legend of the Chicago Bears and an NFL icon, died at 67. McMichael, a key member of the Bears' formidable "46 defense" in the 1980s, was praised for his unwavering will and powerful style of play.

A Champion on the Field and in Life

In 2021, McMichael received a diagnosis of Lou Gehrig's disease, commonly referred to as ALS. Throughout his terrible health, his elegance, humor, and bravery inspired teammates, family, and fans.

The Chicago Bears, where McMichael played for 13 wonderful times of years, will always retain a special place in his heart and memory, even though he began his NFL career with the New England Patriots and finished with a brief stay with the Green Bay Packers. He set an NFL record by playing in 191 straight games while in Chicago, and he finished second in Bears history with 92.5 sacks, only behind Richard Dent.

Super Bowl Glory and Career Achievements

As the leader of one of the NFL's most controlling defenses ever, McMichael was crucial in the Bears' 1985 Super Bowl victory. Among his remarkable stats are:

First-Team All-Pro twice

Two choices for the Pro Bowl

At least seven sacks in seven consecutive seasons (1983–1989)

In the history of the team, only Richard Dent has surpassed that sack streak.

Hall of Fame Induction: A Dream Realized

In Canton, Ohio, on August 3, 2024, Steve McMichael received his long-awaited installation into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A live video from his bedside was shown during the event, ignoring the fact that ALS had left him stationary and mute. ESPN’s Chris Berman relayed McMichael’s touching message:

"I don't want my legacy to be ALS. What I did on the field—that’s my legacy. Pushing myself to the limit... further than anybody else could.”

In 2014 and 2015, McMichael received votes for the Hall of Fame and advanced to the semifinals. His wife, Misty McMichael, became his unrelenting advocate, fighting for his deserved place among football's greats.

A Fighter Until the End

In 2023, McMichael issued a "Do Not Resuscitate" order as his ALS worsened. He decided to battle for a little while longer in the hopes of being recognized by the Hall of Fame, but when he found out he had been selected as a senior semifinalist, he told Misty he wanted to rip it up.

According to veteran publicist Betsy Shepherd, "We will never know a stronger fighter." It was the final thing he could say to me before his speech was lost. "Hall of Fame," he muttered when I asked him what else I could do for him. We succeeded because of the supporters. He has unending affection for you.

Humble Beginnings and College Stardom

Prior to his NFL career, McMichael was an outstanding athlete at the University of Texas, where he broke school records with 369 tackles and 30 sacks and was unanimously named to the First Team All-American. After being recruited by more than 75 institutions, including Bear Bryant of Alabama, McMichael decided on Texas and never looked back. He was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010.

More Than Just a Bear

In 1994, McMichael played his last NFL season with the Green Bay Packers, but he never missed an opportunity to show his devotion to the team.

He once jokingly said, "I only signed with the Packers to steal their money and whup their ass again!"

He was once referred to be "the toughest player I ever coached" by Mike Ditka, the head coach of the Chicago Bears. George H. McCaskey, the chairman of the Bears, agreed:

The Ironman of the Bears passed away with this awful illness, which is a cruel irony. However, Steve demonstrated to us that his true strength lay within. He carried himself with dignity, kindness, and class every day.

Remembering a True NFL Great

 

Unmatched tenacity, devotion to the game, and a profound affection for his family, friends, and supporters are the hallmarks of Steve "Mongo" McMichael's career. His daughter, Macy, and wife, Misty, survive him. The NFL community laments the passing of a cherished human being and a true fighter, in addition to a Hall of Famer.