In a deeply emotional and heartbreaking update, Chicago Bears legend Steve McMichael, who has been battling ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), is now being moved into hospice care.
At 67 years old, McMichael’s health has significantly declined, and reports on Wednesday revealed that he is being removed from a ventilator in ICU and transferred to a care facility.
A Beloved Figure in Chicago
McMichael’s connection to Chicago runs deep, especially for football fans.
He played for the Chicago Bears for an impressive 13 seasons, becoming a key player in their unforgettable 1985 Super Bowl victory.
His legacy is solidified by a club record of 191 consecutive games played, which still stands to this day.
Known for his fierce attitude and relentless drive, McMichael earned the love and admiration of fans throughout the city and beyond.
A Special Moment: Hall of Fame Induction
In a poignant moment last August, McMichael was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, even as he faced the advanced stages of ALS.
The induction ceremony took place by his bedside, with McMichael bedridden but surrounded by close family and former teammates.
He was the second player to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame in the Class of 2024, and the emotional ceremony was a testament to his remarkable career.
Surrounded by his wife, Misty, and several Bears teammates, McMichael donned his gold jacket, and his bronze bust was unveiled in a touching tribute.
Hall of Famer Richard Dent, visibly moved, welcomed McMichael into football immortality with heartfelt words: “You are on a team that you can never be cut from and never be released from.
“When you die, you’ll always be on this team. Welcome home, Steve. You’re in football heaven forever.”
Remembering “Mongo”: A Fearsome Player
McMichael, affectionately known as “Mongo,” was notorious for his larger-than-life personality and his ferocity on the field.
As one of the standout players on the iconic 1985 Bears defense, he became known as one of the most feared defensive tackles in NFL history.
His inclusion in the Hall of Fame made him the fourth defensive player from that legendary 1985 team to earn the honor, joining teammates Richard Dent, Mike Singletary, and Dan Hampton.
Family and Friends Reflect on His Legacy
In an emotional moment during the Hall of Fame ceremony, McMichael’s sister, Kathy, read a speech she had prepared with him before he lost the ability to move or speak due to ALS.
Through her tears, she expressed gratitude to the Chicago Bears organization and its fans: “I played 15 years in the NFL and loved every minute of every down.
“I played with the greatest players and the greatest defense to this day.”
As McMichael’s journey takes another difficult turn, his impact on the game and the city of Chicago remains undeniable.
Fans and teammates alike continue to honor the legacy of a man who played with unmatched heart and determination.