NFL legend Dick Butkus passes away at the age of 80

Dick Butkus, a legendary figure in American football, has passed away at the age of 80. He was a First-Ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer and is best known for his illustrious career as a perennial All-Pro linebacker for the Chicago Bears.A native of Chicago, Butkus initially gained recognition as a standout linebacker at the University of Illinois. The Chicago Bears selected him as the No. 3 overall pick in the 1965 NFL Draft, hoping he would become a cornerstone of their franchise. Over the course of nine seasons with the Bears, Butkus established himself as an imposing force in the NFL during the 1960s and 1970s, earning eight Pro Bowl selections.

Beyond his individual accolades, Butkus was renowned for his intimidating presence on the field. He was not only a skilled defender but also a master at mentally unsettling his opponents. His teammate and fellow Bears legend, Mike Ditka, aptly described Butkus’s unique style of play, stating, “I think Dick [Butkus] put the fear of God into a lot of people.”

Chicago Bears chairman George H. McCaskey paid tribute to Butkus, calling him “the ultimate Bear” and one of the greatest players in NFL history. He emphasized Butkus’s deep connection to Chicago and his lasting contributions to the sport.

Butkus viewed his intensity on the field as the way football should be played, according to an article on the Bears’ website. He retired at the age of 31, partially due to a serious knee injury in the 1973 season, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, his first year of eligibility. He was also enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

In 1985, the Butkus Award was established, recognizing the top linebackers in professional, collegiate, and high school football.

The Chicago Bears honored Dick Butkus by retiring his jersey, No. 51, in 1994. He was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Teams for both decades he played, and he was voted to the NFL’s 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time Teams.

Butkus concluded his remarkable career with 1,020 tackles and 22 interceptions, leaving an indelible mark on the sport of football and earning the respect and admiration of fans and peers alike.