Steve McMichael #76 removes his helmet during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Dec. 30, 1990. Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
Chicago Bears Hall of Fame legend Steve “Mongo” McMichael has died at age 67 after a long bout with ALS.
The big picture: McMichael’s death came just hours after it was announced he was being taken off a ventilator and moved into hospice.
Context: McMichael was one of the colorful characters on the legendary 1985 Bears team that won Super Bowl XX. He was a starter on a defense that included Hall of Fame players like Richard Dent, Dan Hampton and Mike Singletary.
Steve McMichael #76 sacks Gary Hogeboom #14 of the Dallas Cowboys during the game at Texas Stadium on Nov. 17, 1985. The Bears defeated the Cowboys 44-0. Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images
Zoom out: The Texas native brought his big personality to Chicago in 1981, and even though he played for other teams in his career, he returned after retiring to live in the area.
- McMichael was also a one-time professional wrestler, a restaurateur and a football analyst.
- Mongo was famous for rattlesnake hunting and for being an unpredictable live interview in the locker room and on post-game shows.
- He once famously handcuffed sports anchor Mark Giangreco to his desk on live television.
In 2021, the larger-than-life personality was diagnosed with ALS, which confined him to a bed ever since.
The bottom line: Mongo was and forever will be a Chicago folk hero, on and off the field.
