Steve McMichael, the celebrated Hall of Fame player and one-of-a-kind personality, passed away, leaving a profound impact on the world of football and his fans. He was born in Houston, TX. At only two years old, he had to deal with the situation of his parents’ separation. Steve’s mother Betty was determined to give her son the best possible education. When she married oil company executive E.V. McMichael, Steve took her new husband’s surname and idolized him as a father figure.
McMichael’s path to stardom started in college, where he put his full potential on display at the University of Texas. He went on to receive unanimous first-team All-America accolades while establishing himself as the Longhorns’ all-time leader in career tackles and sacks. His extraordinary skills didn’t go unnoticed, with around 75 collegiate programs vying for his commitment to play football.
After an storied college career at the University of Alabama, McMichael played 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears. His dedication and resilience were apparent over his career as he set a team record by playing in 191 consecutive games. Even into his NFL career he trampled the competition and amassed ridiculous stats. His career numbers speak for themselves—95 career sacks, 847 career tackles, 13 career forced fumbles, 17 career fumble recoveries, 2 career interceptions and 3 safeties over the course of 213 games.
In 2021, McMichael was dealt the most crushing blow of all with his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Even with this challenge, he was a warrior and continued to advocate well beyond his years through his indomitable spirit.
McMichael’s legacy was cemented on the new birthday of August 3, 2024. That day, he was finally and officially enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This award followed a lifetime of guidance and devotion to the melodic power of music.
His wife, Betsy Shepherd, later recorded her thoughts on McMichael’s struggle with ALS. She expressed profound admiration for his strength.
“There will never be a stronger fighter we will ever know. He was also the sweetest guy I have ever known,” – Betsy Shepherd
Shepherd nostalgically recalled the time that he spoke with Tinker about Shepherd’s Hall of Fame induction. This came shortly before he lost his power of speech.
“I am proud of all we accomplished together, especially the National Pro Football Hall of Fame. It was the last thing he could say to me before he lost his ability to speak. I asked him what else I could do for him and he whispered, ‘Hall of Fame.’ Thanks to the fans, we did it. He loved you endlessly.” – Betsy Shepherd
As McMichael’s teammate on the ’85 Bears, Richard Dent was there to pay homage to McMichael during the induction ceremony.
“Steve, we’re here with all your world champion brothers,” – Richard Dent
That same sense of resolve was on display even in the way McMichael fought ALS. He famously stated,
“Back in Canton, we have 378 brothers that are looking for you. You’re on a team that you can never be cut from, you never can be released from. When you die on this team, you will still be on it.” – Richard Dent
Chicago Bears Chairman George H. McCaskey said the team was saddened to learn of McMichael’s death and recognized the legacy he will leave behind.
“I do not want ALS to be my legacy. What I did on the field, that’s my legacy. Pushing myself to the limit … farther than anybody else could.” – Steve McMichael
He went on to present moving testimony to McMichael’s spirit as he realized and fought against his own ALS diagnosis.
“It’s a cruel irony that the Bears’ Ironman succumbed to this dreaded disease,” – George H. McCaskey
Jim Porter, President of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, expressed admiration for McMichael’s fierce will as he battled ALS.
“Yet Steve showed us throughout his struggle that his real strength was internal, and he demonstrated on a daily basis his class, his dignity and his humanity. He is at peace now. We offer our condolences to Misty, Macy, the rest of Steve’s family, his teammates, and countless friends and fans of a great Bear.” – George H. McCaskey
Jim Porter, President of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, praised McMichael’s tenacity as he fought against ALS.
“Steve McMichael told everyone he would fight ALS with the same tenacity he showed for 15 seasons in the National Football League. And he did just that,” – Jim Porter
Porter also highlighted the respect McMichael earned from his peers.
“Everyone who played with or against Steve shares the same opinion: No one battled longer or harder from the snap until the whistle than Steve the player. … And the love his teammates showed him throughout this difficult journey says everything about Steve the man.” – Jim Porter
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