Bears Legend Steve McMichael Hospitalized After Contracting MRSA

Former Chicago Bears defensive tackle Steve McMichael underwent a blood transfusion just days after being admitted into intensive care at a Chicago hospital after contracting MRSA, his family announced in a statement on Saturday.

"Steve is currently getting a blood transfusion and has MRSA," the statement said. "We are asking for your prayers to get Steve through this difficult time. Steve, his family and close friends believe in the power of prayer. Thank you."

The 66-year-old announced that he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in April 2021 before recently contracting MRSA, a staph infection.

McMichael was initially hospitalized on Thursday with what was first thought to be pneumonia and was then diagnosed with a urinary tract infection, per ESPN. On Friday, the family said that he was responding to antibiotics and was having fluid removed from his lungs.

The former third-round pick in the 1980 NFL draft spent 15 years in the league, with 13 as a member of the Bears.

His 92.5 career sacks with Chicago rank No. 2 on the franchise's all-time list. McMichael played a crucial role on the Bears' iconic during the team's famous Super Bowl run during the 1985 season, accumulating 8.0 sacks and 44 total tackles.

On Feb. 8, it was announced that he was selected as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024 as a Senior finalist. He is scheduled to be inducted on Aug. 3.