Former Chicago Bear and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dick Butkus has passed away at the age of 80, according to an announcement by the team on Thursday. Butkus’ family has confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep in Malibu, California. The Bears expressed their condolences and stated that the family appreciates the prayers and support.
Butkus, a graduate of the University of Illinois and a key player in their Rose Bowl victory, was selected by the Bears in the first round of the 1965 NFL draft. He played for the team for nine seasons, from 1965 to 1973. Known as one of the best linebackers to have played the game, Butkus had an impressive career, with 25 fumble recoveries and 22 interceptions.
Former Bears coach Mike Ditka once said that Butkus put fear into a lot of people, earning him nicknames such as the Enforcer, the Animal, the Maestro of Mayhem, and the Robot of Destruction. He was known for his dominant presence on the field.
Butkus retired in 1973 due to a right knee injury that did not completely respond to surgery. Despite his intimidating reputation, Bears Chairman George H. McCaskey described Butkus as having a soft touch and mentioned his philanthropic efforts to promote heart health and eliminate performance-enhancing drugs from sports.
In addition to his career in football, Butkus also appeared in films and television shows. He played an opposing coach in the movie “Any Given Sunday” and had a cameo as himself in “Gremlins 2: The New Batch.” He also played the character of Earl Dent in the TV series “MacGyver.”
Butkus received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice and earning first-team All-NFL honors six times. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, describing it as the top of his dream.
The NFL and former NFL players, including Jarrett Payton, expressed their condolences to Butkus’ family and recognized him as a legendary Hall of Famer. Butkus is survived by his wife, Helen, and three children.
Image sources:
1. Dick Butkus cheering at a game (Dylan Buell / Getty Images file)
2. Dick Butkus playing against the Green Bay Packers (Focus On Sport / Getty Images file)
3. Dick Butkus with his family (Larry Stoddard / AP file)
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