Former Chicago Bears defensive tackle and Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve “Mongo” McMichael passed away at the age of 67 after being diagnosed with ALS in 2021. He had entered hospice care earlier on the day of his death. McMichael was a key part of the Chicago Bears team that won the Super Bowl in 1986, making two Pro Bowls and being a two-time All-Pro during his 15-year NFL career with the Bears and Green Bay Packers. In 2024, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame remotely, with his family and members of the 1985 Bears present as his bronze bust was unveiled bedside.
A native of Houston, McMichael had a successful college career as a star defensive lineman for the Texas Longhorns from 1976-79. He was a two-time All-Southwest Conference selection and a consensus All-American during his time in Austin. McMichael went on to play 213 games, starting in 171 of them, and recorded 847 tackles and 95 sacks in the NFL. His 95 sacks are fourth all-time among defensive tackles, with 92.5 of them coming with the Bears, making him second in franchise history behind Richard Dent.
McMichael’s toughness and consistency on the field earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates, with Bears coach Mike Ditka calling him the toughest player he had ever coached. Defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan also praised McMichael as “one of the toughest son of a guns ever to play the game.” In his later years, McMichael’s health was greatly impacted by the effects of ALS, as he was hospitalized multiple times in the previous year for various illnesses, including a urinary tract infection, MRSA, and pneumonia. Despite these challenges, he expressed his desire to live long enough to see his induction into the Hall of Fame.
Jarrett Payton, the son of McMichael’s former teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Walter Payton, announced McMichael’s passing on social media. Payton had been a spokesperson for McMichael throughout his battle with ALS. Payton shared the news of McMichael’s death and asked for prayers for his family during this difficult time. McMichael’s wife, Misty, had previously shared that his wish was to live long enough to witness his Hall of Fame induction. McMichael’s contributions to the sport of football and his impact on those who knew him will always be remembered and celebrated.
In conclusion, Steve McMichael’s legacy as a talented and tough football player who battled through adversity will continue to be honored by fans, teammates, and the football community. His accomplishments on the field, including winning a Super Bowl with the Bears and being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, will forever be remembered. Despite facing challenges in his later years due to ALS, McMichael’s fighting spirit and determination to see his Hall of Fame induction through to the end inspire all who knew him. He leaves behind a lasting impact on the sport and those who had the privilege of knowing him.
