Steve 'Mongo' McMichael, a renowned figure in American football and a cherished member of the Chicago Bears family, passed away at the age of 67.
According to ESPN, his death marks the end of an era defined by his formidable presence both on the gridiron as a Hall of Famer and outside of it.
McMichael's passing on Wednesday was announced by the NFL. Known affectionately as 'Mongo,' he forged an illustrious career that shone brightest during the 1980s with the Chicago Bears. His role in the vaunted "46 defense" is remembered as a key element of the team's historic success.
After his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2021, McMichael faced his condition with considerable bravery. His struggle with the disease was marked by a profound determination, reflecting the resilience he was known for as an athlete.
Born into a sports-oriented family, McMichael's early life steered him towards a path in athletics. His professional journey began when he was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1980. His football career spanned 14 remarkable years until his retirement in 1994. During his tenure with the Bears, McMichael appeared in 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1994, showcasing his exceptional durability and skill, which became hallmarks of his career. Over this period, he recorded a staggering 95 sacks and 847 tackles, figures that underscored his defensive prowess.
The pinnacle of his football career arguably came in 1985, when McMichael contributed to the Bears clinching the Super Bowl XX title. His performance during that season and beyond earned him two first-team All-Pro selections and two trips to the Pro Bowl.
Following his NFL career, McMichael did not stray far from the spotlight, transitioning successfully into professional wrestling. He joined World Championship Wrestling, where he made a name for himself alongside wrestling giants.
His versatility shone through during this time as he also excelled as a sports commentator, leveraging his deep understanding of football to provide insightful analysis on television. Aside from his athletic and broadcasting endeavors, McMichael's personal life was marked by his marriage to Misty Davenport in 2001. Together, they welcomed a daughter, Macy, enriching his life further.
McMichael's diagnosis of ALS, a relentless progressive disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, introduced a new challenge in his life. Despite this, he adapted with courage, leaning on his family and close friends for support.
In his fight against ALS, McMichael's spirit remained unbroken. He made a poignant decision to sign a "do not resuscitate" form in 2023, a testament to his readiness to face his fate head-on. However, upon hearing news of his potential induction into the Hall of Fame, he found new hope and expressed a desire to revoke it. McMichael's battle with ALS, though, underscored a larger narrative that transcended his sports achievements. He insisted that his legacy not be defined by his illness but by his formidable career and the spirited fight he displayed against the disease.
In 2024, McMichael's significant contributions to football were forever memorialized when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The ceremony, held at his home, was a poignant moment for McMichael and his loved ones. His sister Kathy stood in for him, delivering a powerful speech that captured the depth of his impact on and off the field.
The induction was not just a personal milestone but an emotional triumph for all who knew him. Betsy Shepherd, his longtime publicist, reflected on the moment with immense pride, underscoring how deeply McMichael valued this recognition. Jim Porter, president and CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, remarked on McMichael's relentless spirit, both as a player and as a man facing a dire diagnosis. Porter’s tribute highlighted the respect and love McMichael commanded throughout his life and career.
With McMichael's passing, tributes poured in from all corners of the sports world. Bears chairman George H. McCaskey captured the sentiment of many, noting McMichael's enduring strength and humanity, even in the hardest times.
Richard Dent, a teammate and fellow Hall of Famer, offered words of comfort and remembrance, reflecting on the eternal bond formed amongst teammates who achieve the pinnacle of their sport together. Steve 'Mongo' McMichael leaves behind a legacy of determination, resilience, and extraordinary talent that will continue to inspire future generations. His memory will live on, not just in the record books but in the hearts of family, friends, and fans around the world.