Steve “Mongo” McMichael, Chicago Bears Legend, Passes Away
The world of American football mourns the loss of Steve “Mongo” McMichael, a prominent member of the historic “46” defense of the Chicago Bears from the 1980s. McMichael, who passed away at the age of 67, left an indelible mark on NFL history.
Diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) in 2021, McMichael was a fundamental pillar in the Bears’ defensive line, a team he played with for 13 seasons. During his career, he participated in a record of 191 consecutive games with the team.
McMichael, who won a Super Bowl in 1985, was twice selected to the All-Pro first team and the Pro Bowl. His performance on the field was notable, achieving at least seven sacks in seven consecutive seasons. His name will always be present in the memory of Bears fans.
It is a cruel irony that the Bears’ “Ironman” succumbed to this terrible disease. However, Steve showed us throughout his fight that his true strength was internal, and he demonstrated his class, dignity, and humanity daily.
George H. McCaskey, Chairman of the Bears
On August 3, 2024, McMichael was honored and inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His bust was unveiled at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois, in a moving ceremony attended by his wife, daughter, and members of the legendary 1985 Bears defense.
In a moving message, McMichael expressed his wish that his legacy be his performance on the field, his dedication and his effort. A wish that was fulfilled with his induction into the Hall of Fame.
McMichael, who was nominated to the Hall of Fame in 2014 and 2015, was a tireless fighter both on and off the field. His wife, Misty, was a great promoter of his candidacy, demonstrating unconditional love and support.
In 2023, before his health deteriorated, McMichael signed a “do not resuscitate” form. However, upon learning that he was one of the semifinalists for the Hall of Fame, he expressed his desire to break the document, once again showing his fighting spirit.
His legacy on the field includes 95 career sacks, 847 tackles, 13 forced fumbles, 17 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions, and 3 safeties in 213 games. His 92.5 sacks with the Bears place him only behind Richard Dent in team history.
Although he was often overshadowed by other prominent players, McMichael was fundamental to the Bears’ success. Coach Mike Ditka described him as the toughest player he ever coached.
After his time with the Bears, McMichael finished his career with the Packers in 1994. McMichael used to say that he signed with the Bears’ rival to “steal their money and beat them again.”
McMichael was selected by the Patriots in the third round of the 1980 NFL draft, but his time with the team was brief. Before his NFL career, he excelled at the University of Texas, where he was a unanimous All-America. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010.
Following his retirement from American football, McMichael had a successful career as a professional wrestler in WCW, where he won the United States Heavyweight Championship as a member of the “Four Horsemen” group.
Born in Houston, McMichael became a prominent figure in Chicago, even after his playing days. “Mongo”, as he was known, will be remembered for his tenacity, his dedication, and his impact both on and off the field.
Steve McMichael told everyone he would fight ALS with the same tenacity he showed for 15 seasons in the National Football League. And he did.
Jim Porter, President and CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame
