The football world turned its attention to Homer Glen, Illinois, this past weekend as Chicago Bears legend Steve "Mongo" McMichael became the center of a touching Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Unable to travel to Canton, Ohio, due to his ongoing battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), McMichael received his much-deserved honors in the comfort of his own home. This memorable event made history as it marked the first time the Pro Football Hall of Fame conducted a home visit to present a player with his gold jacket and bust.
On Saturday morning, Hall of Fame President Jim Porter, along with a small group of former teammates and family members, made their way to McMichael’s residence, where the emotional ceremony took place. Porter described this unique celebration as incredibly significant, noting, "It’s the least we could do for a guy who has given so much to the game."
Mistress of ceremonies throughout the event was McMichael's wife, Misty, who spoke to the audience about the profound strength and resilience her husband had displayed during his battle with ALS. She shared, "He’s a fighter, and he showed that resilience today more than ever. This moment meant the world to him, and to our family." Misty’s presence and dedication were particularly moving as she prepared a speech on his behalf, one he could not deliver himself.
McMichael's induction into the Hall of Fame comes long after he first entered the NFL during the 1980 draft, where he was selected in the third round by the New England Patriots but eventually found his forever home with the Bears. Over his 15-year career, 13 of which were spent in Chicago, McMichael became a cornerstone of one of the most formidable defenses in NFL history. He contributed to the Bears’ cornerstone moments, notably during the legendary 1985 season, leading the team to its only Super Bowl victory.
The intimate ceremony was attended by his family, including his daughter Macy, providing a space for personal tributes. Hall of Fame brethren Jimbo Covert and Richard Dent were also in attendance, with Dent emotionally proclaiming, "You can see it in his eyes, but more than anything, you can feel it in your heart. Steve has always been a fighter, and today was a testament to that."
The camaraderie among the players was palpable as teammates shared stories reflecting on their time together. Tom Thayer, noted former Bear, suggested that such an honor was long overdue, asserting, "This was not just a pity selection; it’s a deserving selection that celebrates a remarkable career."
However, the day wasn't without a bittersweet edge, a poignant reminder of McMichael's struggle with ALS, which has taken a severe toll on his health. Misty mentioned, "He got two to five years seven years ago, and he’s stretched this time because of this day; he needed to be here to see this moment." Friends and family were ever-grateful for the chance to celebrate McMichael’s legacy in real-time, amidst the harsh realities surrounding his health.
As the ceremony unfolded, an aspect of McMichael’s character emerged that many might not know: his genuine compassion. Throughout his life, he’s been an ardent supporter of first responders and military veterans, a testament to his heart outside of the gridiron. In the spirit of honoring that commitment, McMichael received a surprise performance from The Emerald Society Bagpipe Corps, lifting everyone's spirits as they played outside his window.
The home ceremony culminated as McMichael’s bust was unveiled, prompting a wave of emotions throughout the room. Former players gathered around, sharing a moment reflective of their legendary teamwork. Covert noted, "It’s amazing to see him here today, to celebrate this great moment amidst the love from those who’ve shared this journey with him."
The Hall of Fame generally presents such honors in Canton, Ohio, where McMichael's fellow inductees, including Devin Hester and Julius Peppers, were celebrated during a grand ceremony simultaneously. Football fans around the country rallied their support for McMichael, contributing to an outpouring of letters that reportedly outnumbered any other player’s in Hall of Fame history, underscoring how much he means to the Bears' fan base.
Looking back on McMichael's impressive statistics, he made significant contributions on the field, playing in a franchise record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993, and he ranks second on the Bears’ all-time sacks list. His influence extended beyond just numbers; he routinely exemplified toughness and tenacity, both vital in his professional journey. A wild and charismatic persona, McMichael was an entertainer even after retiring from football, finding success in the professional wrestling sphere with World Championship Wrestling.
In closing, what transpired in Homer Glen was not merely an athlete's professional recognition; it was a heartfelt acknowledgment of a life full of tenacity and heart. Friends, family, and fans celebrated an individual who has overcome numerous challenges with grace and courage. As McMichael himself would perhaps say, "Bear down and hook 'em," showcasing the fierceness of spirit that brought him this far and anchored him in the hearts of many. For a day, the boundaries of a sports ceremony blurred with that of familial love, creating a lasting memory that would resonate well beyond football. He’s earned this moment, and for that, fans everywhere salute Steve "Mongo" McMichael, the resilient warrior of the gridiron whose legacy will endure.