Dick Butkus, widely regarded as one of the all-time greatest NFL linebackers, Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Chicago Bears legend, has died at age 80, his family confirms.
“The Butkus family confirms that football and entertainment legend Dick Butkus died peacefully in his sleep overnight at home in Malibu, California. The Butkus family is gathering with Dick’s wife, Helen. They appreciate prayers and support. Additional information will be provided when it is available,” read a statement from the Butkus family shared via social media by the Chicago Bears.
Butkus was notorious for his intimidating persona and ferocious tackles. He was once called a “maniac” and “well-conditioned animal” by Hall of Fame defensive end Deacon Jones, per EPSN.
“I want to just let ‘em know that they’ve been hit, and when they get up, they don’t have to look to see who it was that hit ‘em,” Butkus once told NFL Films, per ESPN. “It shouldn’t be any puzzle. When they come to, they got to say, ‘It must’ve been Butkus that got me.’”
When did Dick Butkus start playing for the Chicago Bears?
A Chicago native, Butkus was selected by the Bears as the third overall pick during the 1965 NFL draft. He made an almost immediate impact on the football world, earning first-team All-NFL during his first year in the pros. He won that honor five more times, per The Washington Post.
After nine seasons playing for the Bears, Butkus retired in 1973. He went on to work as an actor and pitchman.
“Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history,” team chairman George McCaskey said in a statement, per USA Today. “He was Chicago’s son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidentally, what George Halas looks for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership.
“He refused to accept anything less than the best from himself, or from his teammates. ... His contributions to the game he loved will live forever and we are grateful he was able to be at our home opener this year to be celebrated one last time by his many fans.”