Steve McMichael, a renowned defensive tackle inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, passed away on April 23, 2025, at the age of 67, after a prolonged struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Known by fans as “Mongo,” McMichael was celebrated as one of the most formidable defensive tackles in NFL history and a memorable figure for the Chicago Bears.
“It’s a cruel irony that the Bears’ Ironman succumbed to this dreaded disease,” Bears chairman George H. McCaskey said in a statement. He emphasized McMichael’s inner strength as he faced his illness with dignity, leaving a lasting legacy of grace and resilience.
Diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in January 2021, McMichael was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024. Due to health constraints, he received his gold jacket and bust at a ceremony at his home instead of traveling to Canton, Ohio.
During the home ceremony, former teammate Richard Dent addressed McMichael, saying, “Steve, we’re here with all your world champion brothers,” Dent said. “Back in Canton, we have 378 brothers that are looking for you. You’re on a team that you can never be cut from.”
McMichael had a 15-year NFL career, spending 13 seasons with the Bears from 1981 to 1993. He played a record 191 consecutive games for the Bears and was a two-time first-team All-Pro (1985, 1987), a three-time second-team All-Pro, and made two Pro Bowl appearances.
Originally from Texas, McMichael recorded 92.5 sacks with the Bears, ranking second in franchise history behind Richard Dent. His career total of 95 sacks places him fourth all-time among defensive tackles in the NFL. He amassed 847 tackles over 213 games.
His wife, Misty McMichael, shared insights with the Associated Press ahead of his Hall of Fame induction in 2024. She described him as a strong individual who battled valiantly, expressing mixed emotions about his achievements and his suffering due to ALS. She wished for his suffering to end soon after his Hall of Fame honor, highlighting the harsh reality of ALS.
Despite being 6-foot-2 and 270 pounds, considered modest for his position, McMichael excelled in the “46” defense devised by Buddy Ryan, thanks to his strength, speed, and football acumen, making him effective against the run and in pressuring quarterbacks.
Before joining the Bears, McMichael was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 1980 NFL Draft. Released before his second season, he found success with the Bears. Notably, he contributed to the Bears’ victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl XX.
Nicknamed “Ming the Merciless,” McMichael was a crucial part of the Bears’ 1985 defense, considered one of the greatest in NFL history, alongside Richard Dent, Mike Singletary, and Dan Hampton.
Former teammate Mike Singletary commented during McMichael’s Hall of Fame home ceremony, “I’m really excited for him,” Singletary said. “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 in 1994 following a season with the Green Bay Packers, McMichael pursued a career in professional wrestling. He worked with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the 1990s, serving as both a commentator and wrestler.
Throughout his battle with ALS, McMichael remained resolute, earning the first ALS Courage Award in 2021 from the Les Turner ALS Foundation for his public struggle and efforts to raise awareness.
Pro Football Hall of Fame president Jim Porter reflected on McMichael’s determination, noting he faced ALS with the same tenacity he showed during his NFL career, earning respect from teammates and opponents alike.
Before his professional career, McMichael was a standout at the University of Texas, earning a place in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2020. His journey from Texas to Chicago to Canton marked a significant career in football.
In a 2021 interview, McMichael expressed no regrets about his football career, telling the Chicago Tribune, “Hell yes, I would do it all over again,” he said. “Because it’s that journey that’s the reward. It’s that climb and how hard it was to substantiate yourself as out of the ordinary.”
McMichael is survived by his wife, Misty, and their daughter, Macy. His contributions to the NFL, the Chicago Bears, and his fight against ALS will be remembered by fans and the sports community.