Hall of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus of the Chicago Bears has died at the age of 80, the team announced on Thursday. Butkus, known as one of the fiercest players in the history of the NFL, became a legend in his nine-year career with the Bears. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was considered to be one of the greatest players in NFL history.
The Chicago Bears released a statement through Butkus’ family, revealing that he passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Malibu, California. Team president George McCaskey paid tribute to Butkus, calling him the greatest Bear and praising his toughness, passion, and leadership on and off the field.
Butkus was known for his aggressive playing style and intimidating presence. He was recognized for his ability to deliver bone-crushing tackles and send a message to his opponents. Former Hall of Fame defensive end Deacon Jones once described Butkus as a “maniac” and “a well-conditioned animal.”
During a game against the Green Bay Packers in 1970, Butkus and teammate Willie Holman delivered a hit to quarterback Bart Starr that was so powerful, Starr lost his helmet and even walked toward the wrong bench. Butkus’ intensity and tenacity made him a force to be reckoned with.
Despite battling a chronic knee injury that prematurely ended his career at the age of 31, Butkus achieved remarkable success. He made the Pro Bowl eight times and was named to the All-NFL first team six times. He finished his career with 1,020 tackles and 22 interceptions, solidifying his place as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.
Off the field, Butkus was known for his philanthropy and involvement in charitable causes. He was committed to eliminating performance-enhancing drugs from sports and promoting heart health through the Butkus Foundation. The foundation actively participated in numerous charitable endeavors.
Born and raised in Chicago, Butkus began his football career at Chicago Vocational High School, where he earned the player of the year award. He continued his success at the University of Illinois, helping the team achieve a Rose Bowl victory in 1963. He was selected by the Bears with the third overall pick in the 1965 NFL draft, following in the footsteps of Hall of Fame linebacker Bill George.
Despite his individual achievements, Butkus only played for two winning teams and never made the playoffs. He joined the Bears near the end of the George Halas era, missing out on the team’s championship season in 1963. However, he remained a loyal supporter of the franchise, even taking over the team’s social media account to engage with fans.
Beyond his football career, Butkus found success in the entertainment industry. He appeared in commercials, including memorable ones for Miller Lite alongside Bubba Smith. He also pursued acting and worked as a sports announcer, serving as a color analyst during Bears games.
Dick Butkus’s impact on the game of football will be remembered for generations to come. His ferocious playing style, determination, and charity work have solidified his place as one of the all-time greats. The NFL has lost a true icon, and his legacy will forever live on.