The NFL has seen numerous star players in its history and Dick Butkus was one of them. Born in December 1942, the linebacker inspired many footballers throughout his 9-year NFL career. Butkus stayed with the Chicago Bears all his time in the league and contributed heavily to their success. However, the former Hall of Famer is not with us anymore.
Dick Butkus, the NFL star, has passed away at the age of 80. The 6-foot-3 tall linebacker’s family released a statement after his death to inform everyone about the same. The statement mentioned that Butkus passed away “peacefully in his sleep” at his home in Malibu, California. They have further expressed their gratitude for everyone who’s praying for the star player.
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 5, 2023
The death of the 8-time Pro Bowl has sent everyone in shock. Butkus was one of the most valuable players the NFL has ever had. George H. McCaskey, the chairman of Chicago Bears released a statement after the death of Dick Butkus. He referred to the linebacker as “Chicago’s son”, and praised his contribution to the game.
“Dick was the ultimate Bear and one of the greatest players in NFL history… He was Chicago’s son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidentally, what George Halas looked for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership,” the statement read.
Dick Butkus had the reputation of being the most ferocious player in the league. After 36 years of his retirement, the NFL network ranked him no. 1 as the most feared tackler in history. Back in 1970, Sports Illustrated also featured him on their cover and called him “The Most Feared Man In The Game”. The star player was great throughout his career. Now, everyone is praying for the NFL star to rest in peace.
A look at the brilliant NFL career of Dick Butkus
Born in Illinois, USA, Dick Butkus was exceptional from the very beginning. He started playing football when he was in high school. The former linebacker attended the Chicago Vocational High School and played as a linebacker and punter. After that, he joined the University of Illinois. There, he played for the Illinois Fighting Illini as a linebacker and center.
In the 1965 NFL draft, the Chicago Bears selected the 245 lb player as their 3rd pick in the 1st round. Throughout his 9-year career in the league, Dick Butkus became the NFL defensive player of the year twice. He got 22 interceptions for 166 yards along with 11 sacks and 1 safety. The talented athlete also had 27 fumble recoveries and 1 defensive touchdown.
Dick Butkus once mentioned in an interview that he was happy to play for his home team. The star player felt fortune as his parents got to watch most of his games whenever he played in Chicago. Now, his wife, Helen Essenberg, and kids must be proud of the star player. Butkus set high standards as a linebacker that inspires many even now and will continue to do so.
