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NFL Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, renowned for his intimidating presence on the field, passed away peacefully at the age of 80 at his home in Malibu, California.
The Chicago Bears made the sad announcement, paying tribute to the iconic middle linebacker who left an indelible mark on the sport.
During his nine-season NFL career, Butkus earned five first-team All-Pro selections and participated in eight Pro Bowls.
His unparalleled speed and ferocity redefined the linebacker position, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell lauded Butkus for his fierce competitiveness and acknowledged his impact on the linebacker position. Butkus was a football legend and an advocate for former players and the broader football community.
Before a recent Bears game, a moment of silence was observed in honour of Butkus, who graced the cover of Sports Illustrated’s 1970 NFL preview under the headline “The Most Feared Man in the Game.”
Beyond his football career, Butkus enjoyed success as a sports broadcaster, actor, and pitchman.
He became a beloved figure, and through the Butkus Foundation, he championed various charitable causes, including heart disease prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles among young athletes.
Dick Butkus’s contributions to the NFL and enduring impact on the game will be celebrated forever. He is survived by his wife, Helen, and their children, Ricky, Matt, and Nikki. His nephew, Luke Butkus, continues to make a mark in the football world as a coach.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame paid its respects by lowering its flags to half-staff in honor of this football icon.