Chicago Bears’ legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, widely regarded as the greatest linebacker in the history of football, has passed away at the age of 80.
TMZ Sports was first to break the news.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Butkus was a star linebacker for the Fighting Illini before getting drafted third overall by the Bears in 1965. Butkus spent his entire career in Windy City, which spanned from 1965 to 1973.
Though a knee injury sadly forced him to retire early at the age of 31 in 1974, Butkus had already cemented himself as one of the NFL’s truly-elite and all-time great players. The 1969 and 1970 Defensive Player of the Year was an eight-time Pro Bowler, a five-time First-team All-Pro and a three-time Second-team All-Pro.
Butkus was named to the NFL’s 1960s and 1970s All-Decade Teams. In 2010, NFL Network named Butkus the 10th greatest player of all-time. Lawrence Taylor (third) and Reggie White (seventh) were the only defensive players placed higher than Butkus.
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He finished his career with 22 career interceptions, 27 fumble recoveries and 11 sacks.
After his playing career, Butkus enjoyed a successful acting career that included roles in movies like “The Longest Yard”, “Gus” and “Any Given Sunday.” Butkus also ran his own organization which aimed at “advancing health and wellness”.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Butkus’ family and friends and the Bears’ organization.
