Bears Legend, Hall of Famer Steve McMichael Dies at 67 After ALS Diagnosis

Chicago Bears legend and NFL Hall of Famer Steve McMichael died at the age of 67 on Wednesday after suffering with ALS.

Jarrett Payton, son of McMichael's former teammate Walter Payton, announced McMichael's death on social media.

"With deep sorrow, I share that Steve McMichael passed at 5:28 PM after a brave fight with #ALS, surrounded by loved ones," he wrote. "I'm grateful to have been with him in his final moments. Please keep Steve and his family your prayers."

McMichael, who played from 1980 to 1994, recorded 213 games, 171 starts, 847 tackles and 95 sacks over the course of his career. The two-time Pro Bowler has the fourth-most sacks among defensive tackles in NFL history.

He was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1980 but joined the Bears in 1981. He played in Chicago for 13 seasons, winning a Super Bowl with the team in 1986. He ended his career with the Green Bay Packers in 1994.

Shortly after his NFL career ended, McMichael moved on to a new sport. He joined the World Wrestling Federation in 1995, touring with New York Giants legend Lawrence Taylor's team.

He then worked as a color commentator for World Championship Wrestling before getting back in the ring in 1996, eventually joining the Four Horsemen stable alongside Ric Flair.

McMichael revealed his ALS diagnosis in 2021. He was the first recipient of the ALS Courage Award and earned his spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August last year.