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NFL and Bears legend Dick Butkus has passed away at the age 80, according to TMZ.
Paramedics rushed to his Malibu residence following a medical emergency call at 12:51 PM, but sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Butkus, a towering figure at 6’3″ and 245 pounds, made his mark as a defensive powerhouse, initially at the University of Illinois before joining the Chicago Bears in 1965 as the third overall pick in the NFL Draft.
He stayed loyal to the Bears throughout his professional career, playing from 1965 to 1973.
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 5, 2023
His list of accolades is nothing short of astounding:
- 3rd Overall Pick
- Hall Of Fame Inductee (1979)
- Chicago Bears Retired Jersey #51
- 2-time Defensive Player of the Year
- 8-time All-Pro
- 8-time Pro Bowler
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
Butkus had over 1,000 tackles, 22 INTs, 11 Sacks and 27 fumble recoveries in just 9 seasons
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, a year after becoming eligible.
Beyond the gridiron, Butkus became an actor, making appearances in films and TV shows like “Any Given Sunday, and “The Last Boy Scout.” Additionally, he served as an analyst for CBS.
Even in retirement, Butkus remained a devoted follower of the NFL, sharing his weekly picks on Instagram just hours before his passing.
Dick Butkus leaves behind his wife, Helen, and three children. May he rest in peace.