Steve McMichael, known to many as "Mongo," became a household name in the world of American football through his remarkable career as a defensive tackle. Born on October 17, 1957, in Houston, Texas, McMichael's journey to the National Football League (NFL) began at the University of Texas, where he played college football for the Texas Longhorns. His performance on the field earned him All-American honors, setting the stage for his entry into professional football.
In 1980, McMichael was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the NFL Draft. However, his time with the Patriots was short-lived, as he was released before the start of the regular season. This setback did not deter him, and he soon found a new home with the Chicago Bears, where he would spend the majority of his career and become an integral part of their defense.
McMichael's tenure with the Bears spanned from 1981 to 1993, during which he became a cornerstone of the team's defensive line. His aggressive playing style and ability to disrupt opposing offenses made him a standout player. McMichael was known for his durability, rarely missing a game, and his toughness on the field. He played a crucial role in the Bears' dominant defense, which was famously known as the "Monsters of the Midway."
One of the highlights of McMichael's career came in the 1985 season when the Chicago Bears had one of the most dominant seasons in NFL history. The team finished with a 15-1 regular-season record and went on to win Super Bowl XX, defeating the New England Patriots 46-10. McMichael's performance throughout the season and in the Super Bowl was instrumental in the Bears' success. His contributions to the team's defense helped them become one of the most feared units in the league.
During his time with the Bears, McMichael earned two Pro Bowl selections, in 1986 and 1987, and was named to the All-Pro team multiple times. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run made him a valuable asset to the Bears' defense. McMichael's leadership on and off the field also earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
In 1994, McMichael joined the Green Bay Packers, where he played for one season before retiring from professional football. Over his 15-year NFL career, McMichael played in 213 games, recording numerous sacks and tackles, and establishing himself as one of the most durable and reliable defensive linemen of his era.
After retiring from football, McMichael pursued a career in professional wrestling and also made appearances as a sports commentator. His larger-than-life personality and charisma made him a popular figure in the wrestling world, where he continued to entertain fans.
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