Steve McMichael during the 1991 season. Photo by Bob Fila, Chicago Tribune, via Getty Images.
Chicago, IL — Steve "Mongo" McMichael, a former Chicago Bears defensive standout and NFL Hall of Famer, has died at the age of 67 after a long and difficult fight with ALS.
The heartbreaking news was first shared by sports reporter Jarrett Payton on April 23 via X (formerly Twitter). "With deep sorrow, I share that Steve McMichael passed at 5:28 PM after a brave fight with ALS, surrounded by loved ones," Payton wrote. The NFL also paid tribute to McMichael, calling his passing a significant loss and offering condolences to his family and friends.
Just days earlier, McMichael’s wife, Misty, had confirmed he was entering hospice care due to worsening health.
McMichael carved out a legendary 15-year career in the NFL, spending most of it with the Chicago Bears. He joined the team in 1981 and became a cornerstone of their defensive line. In 1985, he helped lead the Bears to their first and only Super Bowl win, a moment that cemented his place in football history. Earlier this year, in February 2024, McMichael was honoured with an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Born in Houston in 1957, McMichael's life was shaped by early hardships. After his biological father left, he was raised by his mother and stepfather in the small Texas town of Freer. He was a gifted athlete, excelling in several sports at Freer High School. Though he dreamed of playing baseball, his parents encouraged him to attend college.
Steve McMichael in 1994. Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images.
At the University of Texas, McMichael became a standout defensive tackle. But his life was shaken when his stepfather was murdered during his freshman year. That tragedy changed his outlook. Though he enjoyed the party scene, he kept his focus on football, eventually earning All-American honours and becoming MVP at the Hula Bowl.
Drafted by the New England Patriots in 1980, McMichael was cut after one season. The Bears picked him up in 1981, where he found his stride. Nicknamed “Mongo” by teammate Dan Hampton, after a tough character in the movie Blazing Saddles—McMichael quickly became a fan favourite. He played 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993, earning multiple Pro Bowl nods and All-Pro honours.
He was known for his fierce style of play and his deep connection to Bears fans. In a 2019 interview, he recalled how painful it was to leave training camps without signing autographs for every child who waited for him.
After retiring in 1994 following a final season with the Packers, McMichael had stints in professional wrestling and media. He briefly joined Ric Flair’s wrestling group “The Four Horsemen” and even ran for mayor in Illinois. He also coached indoor football and remained active in the sports community until his ALS diagnosis in 2021.
McMichael is survived by his wife, Misty, and their daughter, Macy. His legacy continues to inspire generations of fans, players, and aspiring athletes.
