n August 2024, Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael, the legendary Chicago Bears defensive tackle, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame during a heartfelt ceremony at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois. Due to his ongoing battle with ALS, McMichael was unable to attend the official enshrinement in Canton, Ohio.
Surrounded by his wife, Misty, daughter, Macy, and former teammates including Jimbo Covert, Richard Dent, and Mike Singletary, McMichael received his Hall of Fame gold jacket and bronze bust. The ceremony was broadcast live to attendees in Canton, ensuring he was part of the official proceedings.
During the ceremony, Hall of Famer Richard Dent addressed McMichael, stating, “You are on a team that you can never be cut from and never be released from. When you die, you’ll always be on this team. Welcome home, Steve. You’re in football heaven forever.”
McMichael’s sister, Kathy, delivered a speech on his behalf, expressing gratitude to the Chicago Bears and their fans: “I played 15 years in the NFL and loved every minute of every down. I played with the greatest players and the greatest defense to this day.” igure in the Bears’ formidable 1985 defense. He played a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993 and ranks second on the Bears’ all-time sacks list with 92.5.
Diagnosed with ALS in 2021, McMichael’s induction into the Hall of Fame stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he has had on the sport and its community.
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