Steve McMichael Honored at Home Amid ALS Battle

HOMER GLEN, Ill. — Steve McMichael, a beloved figure in Chicago Bears history, received a heartfelt tribute as he was honored at his home after being unable to attend the Pro Football Hall of Fame ceremony due to his ongoing battle with ALS.

Surrounded by family and former teammates, McMichael, 67, wore his gold jacket as his bronze bust was unveiled on April 23, 2025. This recognition comes as McMichael faces advanced stages of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a disease he was diagnosed with in 2021. ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig‘s disease, affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control.

“As of today, Silver Cross Hospital has recommended to the family to transfer Steve into a Joliet hospice facility this afternoon,” said Misty McMichael, Steve’s wife, during an interview with FOX 32 Chicago. “He’s been unresponsive for the last two weeks and in and out of the hospital. He’s currently in the ICU at Silver Cross.”

McMichael’s health has deteriorated in recent weeks, necessitating the move to hospice care, marking a poignant moment in his ongoing fight against the disease that has significantly impacted his quality of life.

McMichael, known affectionately as “Mongo,” spent 13 of his 15 NFL seasons with the Bears, where he became a key player on the 1985 Super Bowl championship team. Throughout his career, he earned five All-Pro selections and amassed 95 career sacks.

His wife Misty accepted the Hall of Fame jacket on his behalf during the ceremony, which took place in their home, a setting filled with love and support. “ALS attacks the organs and has attacked all his organs except his heart,” she shared. “His heart is perfect.”

As he continues to fight ALS, McMichael has been a source of inspiration to many, celebrated not just for his achievements on the football field but also for his unwavering spirit off it.