Chicago Bears legend Steve McMichael has died at 67 after a brave battle with ALS. Remembering the NFL icon’s legacy, achievements, and impact on the sport.
The Chicago Bears community and football fans across the nation are mourning the loss of one of the sport’s most iconic figures. Steve “Mongo” McMichael, a legendary defensive tackle and Super Bowl champion, has passed away at the age of 67 after a brave and public battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
NFL Mourns the Loss of Steve McMichael, a True Chicago Bears Icon
The sports world is mourning the loss of a true NFL legend. Steve “Mongo” McMichael, former defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears and a key member of the iconic 1985 Super Bowl-winning team, has passed away at the age of 67 after a long and courageous battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
McMichael, known for his toughness on the field and larger-than-life personality off it, was a key part of the Bears’ legendary 1985 Super Bowl-winning team. Over his 13 seasons with the Bears, he earned two Pro Bowl selections and became one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
A Storied Career on the Gridiron
Steve McMichael played 13 of his 15 NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears, becoming one of the franchise’s most beloved and respected players. Known for his toughness, fiery personality, and unmatched work ethic, McMichael was a pillar of the legendary 1985 Bears defense—widely regarded as one of the greatest defenses in NFL history. He recorded 95 sacks during his career and was named to the Pro Bowl twice.
Battle With ALS
In 2021, McMichael publicly revealed his diagnosis with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Despite the devastating prognosis, he remained publicly optimistic and received an outpouring of support from fans, former teammates, and the NFL community. His courage and spirit throughout his fight with ALS became a source of inspiration for many.
Legacy Beyond Football
After retiring from football, McMichael remained a familiar face in Chicago, working as a sports broadcaster and even venturing into professional wrestling. His larger-than-life personality and fierce loyalty to the Bears and their fans made him a lasting figure in the city’s sports culture.
After football, he remained a familiar figure in Chicago through media appearances, wrestling, and local advocacy.In recent years, McMichael’s fight against ALS brought renewed attention to the devastating disease and highlighted his unshakable spirit.
His diagnosis in 2021 sparked an outpouring of support from fans, former teammates, and the broader sports world.In this post, we reflect on McMichael’s storied career, his impact on the game and the city of Chicago, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. We also take a closer look at how his battle with ALS helped raise awareness and inspire others facing similar challenges see more.