Chicago Bears Legend Steve McMichael Hospitalized in Intensive Care as He Battles ALS

Bears Great Steve McMichael Admitted to Intensive Care

Published: Aug 04, 2023 at 06:02 PM

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CHICAGO — Steve McMichael, a star defensive tackle on the Chicago Bears’ famed 1985 Super Bowl championship team, who has been battling ALS, was admitted to intensive care due to sepsis and pneumonia, according to his wife, Misty McMichael. The news broke on Friday through Misty’s Instagram post, revealing that her husband was hospitalized on Thursday night.

A Legendary Career Cut Short

McMichael, a Chicago Bears icon, spent 13 of his 15 seasons with the team and was a key component in their historic Super Bowl victory in 1985. Known for his fierce presence on the field, he was named an All-Pro player in 1985 and 1987. McMichael’s dedication to the game is evident in his record of playing in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993.

His exceptional career as a defensive tackle has left an enduring mark on the Chicago Bears’ history. McMichael ranks second to Richard Dent on the Bears’ all-time sacks list, with an impressive 92 1/2 sacks. His final season in the NFL came in 1994 with the Green Bay Packers.

A Potential Hall of Famer

Despite his ongoing health challenges, McMichael continues to make headlines. He is one of 12 players who are under consideration for induction into the prestigious Hall of Fame next year, with their final appearance in the NFL being no later than 1998. The selection committee will narrow down the list to a maximum of three finalists, who will then need the support of at least 80% of voters to be inducted as part of the 2024 class.

If McMichael is honored with a place in the Hall of Fame, it would be a fitting tribute to his impressive career and the impact he had on the game of football.

Off the Field Influence

McMichael’s influence went beyond his on-field performance. Even after retiring from football, he remained a prominent figure in Chicago, captivating fans with his insightful commentary on the Bears’ games on sports talk radio. Known by nicknames such as “Ming The Merciless” and “Mongo,” a reference to the character in the film “Blazing Saddles” who famously knocked out a horse, McMichael’s larger-than-life personality endeared him to fans and made him an unforgettable figure in the city’s sports culture.

In addition to his football career, McMichael enjoyed a stint in professional wrestling in the late 1990s, further amplifying his presence in the public eye and solidifying his status as a multi-dimensional sports personality.

Editorial: Reflecting on McMichael’s Legacy

Steve McMichael’s hospitalization serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, especially for those who have dedicated their bodies to the brutal world of professional football. It is disheartening to see a legend like McMichael, who gave everything to the game, confront the devastating effects of ALS and face additional health complications.

The news of McMichael’s potential induction into the Hall of Fame next year only adds to the poignancy of the current situation. It raises the question of whether we as a society do enough to support and advocate for the well-being of our sports heroes once their playing days are over. It is crucial that we prioritize the health and mental well-being of our athletes, ensuring proper care and support long after they retire from the game.

McMichael’s incredible career, both on and off the field, leaves a lasting legacy. His prowess as a player, his larger-than-life personality, and his unwavering dedication to the Chicago Bears have earned him a place in the hearts of football fans. Whether he secures a place in the hallowed halls of the Hall of Fame or not, his impact on the sport will not be forgotten.

Advice: Celebrate and Support Our Heroes

The news of Steve McMichael’s hospitalization should serve as a reminder to appreciate and support our sports heroes while they are still with us. It is easy to overlook the physical toll that professional sports take on athletes, but these individuals sacrifice their bodies for our entertainment and to represent our cities and teams.

We should take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Steve McMichael, not only as a football player but also as a beloved figure in the community. Whether it be donating to ALS research, reaching out to athletes to express support, or simply acknowledging and promoting the importance of player health and well-being, every action counts in ensuring our heroes receive the care and respect they deserve.

Let us remember Steve McMichael’s legacy and rally behind those who have given so much to the sports we love.