Bears great Steve McMichael intensive care, sepsis contraction

Chicago Bears legend Steve McMichael is in intensive care after being hospitalized due to sepsis and pneumonia. He is also battling ALS.

Chicago Bears legend Steve McMichael, a key member of the iconic 1985 Super Bowl championship defense, is currently in intensive care after being hospitalized in the southwest suburbs on Thursday night. According to his publicist, McMichael, who is 65 years old, was admitted due to sepsis and was unconscious upon arrival. However, he has since been administered antibiotics intravenously and as of Friday morning, he is awake with improving vital signs. It is worth noting that McMichael is also battling pneumonia.

In January 2021, McMichael was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), which has unfortunately led to the loss of his ability to move or talk. Despite these challenges, McMichael's legacy in the NFL is undeniable. During his 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears, he played 191 consecutive regular-season games and 12 playoff contests. In fact, he still holds the Bears' record for the most regular-season games played by a position player, a record he shares with Olin Kreutz. McMichael's impressive career also includes 95 sacks, which is the fourth-highest total among defensive tackles in NFL history.

Recently, McMichael's chances of being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame have improved. He was named as one of the 12 Seniors Committee semifinalists out of a list of 31. On August 22, his case will be presented to the Seniors Committee once again, and up to three Seniors nominees will be selected for the Hall of Fame's Class of 2024. McMichael's wife, Misty, has expressed how much it would mean to him to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame and has asked for prayers for his recovery.

Steve McMichael's impact on the Chicago Bears and the NFL as a whole cannot be overstated. His contributions to the 1985 Super Bowl championship team and his impressive career statistics make him a deserving candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. As he continues his battle with ALS and his current health challenges, the football community and fans everywhere are rallying behind him, hoping to see him achieve this well-deserved honor.