Steve “Mongo” McMichael, Chicago Bears Legend, Passes Away
The NFL announced the passing of Steve “Mongo” McMichael, a prominent member of the legendary “46” defense of the Chicago Bears from the 1980s. McMichael, who ranked second in franchise history with 92.5 sacks, died at the age of 67. In 2021, McMichael was diagnosed with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. His impact on the field was significant, playing 13 seasons with the Bears and leaving an indelible mark on the history of American football.On August 3, 2024, McMichael was officially inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Surrounded by his wife, daughter, and members of the famous 1985 Bears defense, McMichael’s bust was unveiled at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois. His sister, Kathy, delivered the induction speech in a pre-recorded video. In the event of his induction, his former teammates Richard Dent, Ron Rivera, Mike Singletary, Jimbo Covert, Gary Fencik, Jim Osborne and Marcus Keyes were present.It’s a cruel irony that the Bears’ “Ironman” succumbed to this dreaded disease. However, Steve showed us throughout his fight that his true strength was internal, and he demonstrated daily his class, his dignity, and his humanity. Now he is at peace.
George H. McCaskey, Bears chairman
McMichael, who was selected by the Hall of Fame’s senior committee, had been nominated previously in 2014 and 2015, and although he passed the first round of candidates on two occasions, he was not selected. His wife, Misty, actively fought for her husband’s inclusion, as ALS took away his ability to move or speak, confining him to bed during the last years of his life. In 2023, McMichael signed a “do not resuscitate” form before his condition worsened. Upon learning that he was one of the senior semi-finalists last August, McMichael informed his wife that he wanted to break the DNR pending the news of his selection.I don’t want ALS to be my legacy. What I did on the field, that is my legacy. Pushing myself to the limit… beyond what anyone else could.
We will never know a stronger fighter. He was also the sweetest guy I’ve ever known. I am proud of everything we achieved together, especially the Pro Football National Hall of Fame. It was the last thing he could say to me before he lost the ability to speak. I asked him what else I could do for him and he whispered: ‘Hall of Fame’. Thanks to the fans, we did it. I loved you endlessly.
Betsy Shepherd, McMichael’s publicist
Although often in the shadow of Hall of Fame members Singletary and Dent, McMichael was fundamental to the Bears’ success. Coach Mike Ditka described him as the toughest player he ever coached.
After retiring from football, McMichael ventured into professional wrestling with World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he won the United States Heavyweight Championship as a member of the famous “Four Horsemen” group led by Ric Flair.
