The Chicago Bears received some devastating news on Tuesday after one of their legends was officially diagnosed with CTE. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is caused by repeated impacts to the head. The effects later in life can be absolutely devastating.
Unfortunately, that is what we are seeing from one Chicago’s all-time greats. Here are the details.
Oct 15, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; A detailed view of the Chicago Bears helmet before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; A detailed view of the Chicago Bears helmet before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bears Legend Steve McMichael Diagnosed With CTE
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Steve McMichael, who was a dominating presence on on Chicago’s defense for 13 seasons was officially diagnosed with CTE. The news came after he passed away last year, in part due to complications from ALS )Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).
“Too many NFL players are developing ALS during life and diagnosed with CTE after death,” his wife, Misty McMichael, said in a statement released by the foundation. “I donated Steve’s brain to inspire new research into the link between them.”
CTE has commonly been found in athletes who participate in contact sports. The effects can be life changing, often leading to violent tendencies, mood swings, impulsive behavior, and even depression.
Steve McMichael’s Complete NFL Stats
Oct 28, 1990; Tempe, AZ, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Steve McMichael (76) on the field against the Phoenix Cardinals at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-Imagn Images
Oct 28, 1990; Tempe, AZ, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Steve McMichael (76) on the field against the Phoenix Cardinals at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
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McMichael was a third round pick (73rd overall) in the 1980 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. He was cut after his rookie season and signed with the Chicago Bears where he would spend 13 years terrorizing offensive lines. His last season in 1994 was spent with the Green Bay Packers. Here is a look at his career stats:
213 career games played (171 career starts)
847 career tackles (838 solo tackles)
95.0 career sacks
10 forced fumbles
17 fumbles recoveries
3 safeties
2 interceptions
This is certainly a reminder of what NFL players can go through in their post-playing days and why the league has put such an emphasis on player safety today.
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