Bears legend Steve “Mongo” McMichael has been hospitalized once again amid his battle with ALS, just four months before his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
McMichael, a former NFL defensive tackle who played for the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Green Bay Packers from 1980 to 1994, bravely shared his battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) three years ago.
Since then, he has faced numerous health challenges.
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In February, McMichael returned home after a stint in intensive care due to a urinary tract infection.
Reports indicate that he now requires continuous, round-the-clock care as he copes with the effects of ALS and other health issues.
On Wednesday, it emerged that Steve McMichael, aged 66, has been hospitalized once again as he continues his courageous battle against the debilitating condition.
Jarrett Payton, the son of late Chicago Bears Hall of Famer Walter Payton who was a teammate of McMichael’s, asked for prayers for McMichael in a post on X.
“Steve McMichael Hospitalized. The McMichael family is asking for prayers, as Steve was hospitalized today. He is currently undergoing tests. We will update his fans and the media as more information becomes available. Thank you.”
In February, McMichael was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and is set to be enshrined in Canton, Ohio on August 3.
McMichael was renowned for his dominant presence on the defensive line for the Chicago Bears during the 1980s.
He achieved All-Pro status during the team’s triumphant 1985 Super Bowl championship season and again in 1987.
His remarkable durability was exemplified by his playing in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993. McMichael’s impact extended beyond his longevity, as he secured the second-highest sack total in Bears history with 92 1/2, trailing only Hall of Famer Richard Dent. He concluded his illustrious NFL career with the Green Bay Packers in 1994.
Even after retiring from the gridiron, McMichael remained a prominent figure in Chicago, whether through his intimidating presence on sports talk radio or his tenacious reputation earned on the field. He earned nicknames such as “Ming The Merciless” and “Mongo,” the latter a reference to a character from the movie “Blazing Saddles” known for his legendary punch.
In addition to his football career, McMichael ventured into professional wrestling for five years in the late 1990s, further solidifying his status as a multi-faceted sports personality.
