Steve McMichael, a Hall of Fame defensive tackle renowned for his role on the Chicago Bears’ 1985 Super Bowl team, passed away on April 23, 2025, at the age of 67. He had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for several years.
Affectionately known as “Mongo,” McMichael is remembered as a formidable defensive tackle in NFL history and an iconic figure in the Bears’ navy and orange.
Bears chairman George H. McCaskey said in a statement, “It’s a cruel irony that the Bears’ Ironman succumbed to this dreaded disease.” McCaskey highlighted McMichael’s internal strength, noting his grace and dignity in facing his illness.
McMichael received his ALS diagnosis in January 2021. Despite his health challenges, he achieved his goal of being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, with a special home ceremony awarding him his gold jacket and bust when he could not travel to Canton, Ohio.
In this touching ceremony, former teammate Richard Dent remarked, “Steve, we’re here with all your world champion brothers.” Dent noted that McMichael’s place in the Hall of Fame is secure and everlasting.
McMichael’s NFL career spanned 15 seasons, 13 of which were with the Bears from 1981 to 1993. He set a franchise record by playing 191 consecutive games. His accolades include two first-team All-Pro selections (1985, 1987), three second-team All-Pro honors, and two Pro Bowl appearances.
Hailing from Texas, McMichael ranks second in franchise history with 92.5 sacks, behind Richard Dent. He accumulated 95 career sacks, placing fourth all-time among NFL defensive tackles, and recorded 847 career tackles in 213 games.
Prior to his Hall of Fame induction in 2024, his wife, Misty McMichael, shared with the Associated Press her complex emotions. She expressed pride in her husband’s resilience, acknowledging the challenges he faced with ALS.
Despite being considered modestly sized for his position at 6 feet 2 inches and 270 pounds, McMichael was effective in Buddy Ryan’s “46” defense, excelling in both run defense and pass rushing.
McMichael was initially drafted by the New England Patriots in the 1980 NFL Draft’s third round. After being released, he joined the Bears, later contributing to their Super Bowl XX victory over his former team.
Nicknamed “Ming the Merciless,” McMichael was a vital part of what is often cited as the NFL’s greatest defensive unit, alongside Richard Dent, Mike Singletary, and Dan Hampton, during the Bears’ 1985 season.
Mike Singletary commented during McMichael’s Hall of Fame ceremony, “It’s been a long haul. It’s been tough. He’s been through a lot: blood, sweat and tears on the field.”
After retiring from the NFL in 1994, McMichael ventured into professional wrestling with World Championship Wrestling (WCW), joining the “Four Horsemen” group.
Throughout his ALS battle, McMichael maintained his characteristic determination, earning the first ALS Courage Award from the Les Turner ALS Foundation in 2021 for his public advocacy.
Pro Football Hall of Fame president Jim Porter noted McMichael’s resilience in facing ALS, mirroring his football career’s tenacity.
Before his professional career, McMichael excelled at the University of Texas, earning a College Football Hall of Fame induction in 2020. His journey from Texas to Chicago to Canton remains notable in football history.
In a 2021 interview, McMichael reflected on his career, telling the Chicago Tribune, “Hell yes, I would do it all over again,” emphasizing the value of the challenges he overcame to distinguish himself.
McMichael is survived by his wife, Misty, and their daughter, Macy. His impact on the NFL and his courage in facing ALS leave a lasting legacy.
