Medical researchers have confirmed that former Chicago Bears defensive star Steve McMichael suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, according to the Concussion & CTE Foundation.
The Hall of Fame player passed away in 2024 at age 67 following a lengthy battle with ALS that lasted five years.
“Too many NFL players are developing ALS during life and diagnosed with CTE after death,” his widow Misty McMichael stated through the foundation. “I donated Steve’s brain to inspire new research into the link between them.”
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy represents a progressive brain condition discovered in contact sport athletes, military veterans and individuals who have experienced repeated head injuries. The disease is associated with aggressive mood changes, reckless behavior and mental health struggles.
Medical professionals can only confirm CTE through post-mortem examination.
Research from Harvard Medical School and Boston University’s CTE Center in 2021 revealed that NFL players face more than four times the risk of developing ALS compared to other men. Boston University CTE Center Director Dr. Ann McKee noted that approximately 6% of CTE cases in their brain repository also show signs of ALS, commonly called Lou Gehrig’s disease.
“There is strong evidence linking repetitive brain trauma and ALS,” McKee stated.
McMichael earned All-Pro honors twice and received Pro Football Hall of Fame recognition in 2024. Known by nicknames “Mongo” and “Ming The Merciless,” he established a Bears franchise record by appearing in 191 straight games between 1981-93. His career total of 92 1/2 sacks places him second behind Richard Dent in team history.
After completing his Chicago tenure, McMichael spent his final NFL season with Green Bay in 1994 before transitioning to professional wrestling.
McMichael publicly disclosed his ALS diagnosis in 2021, a condition that damages brain and spinal cord nerve cells while eliminating muscle function. He actively followed research examining ALS and CTE connections and committed his brain for scientific study, according to Concussion & CTE Foundation co-founder and CEO Chris Nowinski.
“Steve McMichael was known for his strength, toughness, and larger-than-life presence, but his final act was to give a piece of himself back to the sports community so that we might have a chance to save ourselves,” Nowinski commented. “I appreciate all the former athletes, including many of Steve’s ’85 Bears teammates, who are raising funds and volunteering to participate in CTE research so we can create a brighter future for athletes everywhere.”
